Dawood Zakaria

Dawood Ibrahim Kaskar, often referred to as Dawood Zakaria or simply Dawood, is an Indian fugitive and organized crime boss. He is believed to be the head of D-Company, a criminal syndicate he founded in Mumbai in the 1970s. Dawood’s story is one of a meteoric rise through the ranks of the Mumbai underworld, evolving from a small-time hoodlum to a globally recognized and feared figure.

Born in Dongri, Mumbai, to a police constable father, Dawood’s early life saw him immersed in the city’s underbelly. He quickly became involved in petty crime, and his ambition and ruthlessness allowed him to rapidly ascend in the criminal hierarchy. By the late 1970s, D-Company was a significant player, engaging in activities such as extortion, smuggling, and contract killing.

Dawood’s operations grew in sophistication and scale over the years. He diversified into drug trafficking, arms dealing, and real estate. His network extended beyond India, establishing connections with other criminal organizations and individuals across the globe. The vast wealth he amassed allowed him to exert considerable influence, corrupting officials and operating with near impunity.

However, it was Dawood’s alleged involvement in the 1993 Bombay bombings that solidified his notoriety and made him a prime target for Indian authorities. The bombings, which killed hundreds and injured thousands, were seen as a turning point. India accused Dawood of masterminding the attacks in retaliation for the demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya. He has been on India’s most wanted list ever since, and Interpol has issued a red corner notice against him.

Following the 1993 bombings, Dawood is believed to have fled India, and he is widely believed to reside in Pakistan, though the Pakistani government consistently denies harboring him. Despite being a fugitive, D-Company continues to operate, albeit with reduced visibility. The organization’s activities have diversified further, including involvement in counterfeiting, money laundering, and even alleged links to terrorist groups.

Dawood Ibrahim remains a complex and controversial figure. He is seen by some as a symbol of India’s underworld and a threat to national security. For others, particularly in the areas where he once held sway, he is remembered as a powerful figure who provided opportunities and patronage. Regardless of perception, Dawood’s influence on the Indian criminal landscape and his international connections are undeniable. He remains a key focus of law enforcement agencies around the world, and his eventual capture or death would mark the end of an era in the history of organized crime in India.