Baffling Assassination of British Diplomat Remains Unsolved After 39 Years
The city of Mumbai has long been known for its sharp detection of crimes, but there are some cases that continue to stump even the most skilled investigators. One such case is the perplexing assassination of British deputy high commissioner, Percy Leonard Norris, which occurred on November 27, 1984, near Hutatma Chowk, also known as Flora Fountain. Despite decades of investigation, the Mumbai police have been unable to solve this shocking crime that sent shockwaves through the diplomatic corps and the city itself.
Eyewitnesses recall two assailants dressed in dark blue track suits lying in wait near the fountain. As Norris’ limousine approached, they unleashed a hail of bullets from a semi-automatic weapon, fatally shooting Norris in the rear seat. One bullet pierced his temple, while another passed through his chest. Although the experienced driver, Morris D’Souza, managed to catch a glimpse of one of the tall and well-built assassins fleeing, it was too late. By the time the car arrived at Breach Candy Hospital, Norris had already succumbed to his injuries.
The meticulous planning and reconnaissance involved in this assassination indicate that the attackers were familiar with Norris’ daily routine and knew the exact moment when his car would turn towards the British deputy high commission. Later that night, a little-known terrorist organization called the Revolutionary Organisation of Muslim Socialists claimed responsibility for the killing. They alleged that Norris was a spy and threatened further attacks on diplomats unless their comrade, who had been arrested in London for the murder of the Israeli ambassador to the UK in 1982, was released.
The Mumbai police launched an extensive search across the city, mobilizing their forces at the airport and docks. However, it appeared that the assassins, aware of the ongoing manhunt, did not leave immediately. It is believed that they received local support, possibly from the growing Dawood Ibrahim gang, which provided them shelter. It is suspected that the killers managed to escape via the poorly secured sea route.
Norris had likely come under the radar of the terror group between 1980 and 1983, during his posting in Dubai. Prior to his move to Bombay in 1984, he had been awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Queen Elizabeth II, highlighting his distinguished service. Norris’ children, Martin and Madeleine, express their dissatisfaction with the Mumbai police’s efforts to solve their father’s murder, believing that more could have been done.
The unsolved assassination of Percy Leonard Norris remains a haunting mystery even after 39 years. It is a clear reminder that even the most skilled and revered police forces, such as Mumbai’s, can face challenges in cracking difficult cases. The search for justice continues, as the family of Norris and the public hope for closure in this baffling crime.
