Saleem Wastik Attack Case: Who Were Zeeshan and Gulfam, Why Did They Target the Ex-Muslim Content Creator?

ByDelhi Magazine Team

Mar 4, 2026

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Crime Desk, Delhi Magazine: The knife attack on EX-Muslim content creator Saleem Wastik in Loni, Ghaziabad has raised several questions. After the initial reports about the brutal attack and his critical condition, people have been asking the same questions: Who carried out the attack? What was their motive? And did they have any personal enmity with Wastik?

As the investigation progressed, several details about the accused and the planning behind the attack have started to emerge.

Who Were the Attackers?

According to police investigation, the attack was carried out by two brothers — Zeeshan and Gulfam.

Reports suggest that both were originally from Saidangali area of Amroha district in Uttar Pradesh. They were living in a rented accommodation in Khoda Colony, Ghaziabad, where they worked as carpenters and daily wage workers.

People who knew them say they lived a relatively ordinary life. So far, no major criminal record has been reported against them, which has surprised many locals and even their own relatives.

What Happened on the Day of the Attack?

The attack took place on February 27 in Loni, Ghaziabad.

Investigators believe the accused had already observed the area before carrying out the attack. Police suspect they had visited the location earlier to understand the surroundings and the routine of the office.

On the day of the incident, both men arrived on a motorcycle and were wearing helmets. They entered the office of Saleem Wastik and allegedly attacked him with a knife.

During the assault, they targeted his neck and abdomen, and reportedly attempted to slit his throat. People present nearby intervened and rushed Wastik to the hospital for treatment.

Was There Any Personal Enmity?

So far, investigators have not found any evidence of a direct personal dispute between Wastik and the accused.

Police believe the motive may be related to ideological or religious differences. Saleem Wastik identifies himself as an “EX-Muslim” and has been posting videos on social media where he criticizes religious extremism.

Investigators are examining whether the accused were angered by such content.

What Did Investigators Find on Their Social Media?

After the attack, police began examining the mobile phones and social media accounts of the accused.

Some posts and videos linked to the accused reportedly contained strong opinions on religious and political issues. Investigators are also checking whether they were part of any online groups or channels spreading extremist content.

Digital forensic teams are analyzing call records, chat histories and online activity to understand whether anyone else influenced or encouraged the attack.

Did the Attackers Say Anything After the Incident?

According to some reports, after the attack the accused allegedly told acquaintances that the incident was related to religious sentiments. However, authorities say all such claims are still being verified as part of the investigation.

Officials are trying to determine whether the attack was a spontaneous act or the result of a deeper ideological influence.

Family Reaction

Family members of the accused have said they had no prior knowledge of such plans. According to them, the brothers were working as laborers and supporting the family.

Locals in their village also expressed shock, saying they never expected the brothers to be involved in such a violent incident.

Police Action

After the attack, both suspects went on the run and police launched a search operation.

Later, the two accused were killed in separate police encounters during attempts to apprehend them.

However, investigators are continuing to analyze their digital activity and contacts to determine whether any larger influence or network played a role in the attack.

A Larger Question for Society

The incident has once again raised concerns about how online radical content and ideological polarization can influence individuals.

Experts say that in the age of social media, disagreements over identity, religion or ideology can quickly escalate if extreme narratives begin to dominate online discussions.