evidence-tampering-in-pune-crash-probed

In a recent development, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar revealed that efforts were made to project that the 17-year-old who allegedly crashed his Porsche into a motorbike, resulting in the death of two people, was not driving the vehicle at the time of the accident. Instead, there were attempts to suggest that an adult was behind the wheel.

 

Commissioner Kumar addressed the media, stating that an internal investigation has uncovered lapses by some police officers in handling the case. These officers are now facing action for destruction of evidence. He firmly denied any preferential treatment given to the juvenile at the police station.

 

During the investigation, it became clear that the juvenile was indeed driving the car. The police have gathered substantial chronological evidence, including security register entries showing the minor left his house with the car. Technical and CCTV evidence further confirms that the teenager was driving.

 

Eyewitnesses have also supported this claim, identifying the teenager, the son of real estate developer Vishal Agarwal, as the driver. Attempts to shift the blame to an adult family driver were noted, but the police are taking steps to address these false claims under section 201 of the IPC, which deals with the destruction of evidence.

 

Regarding blood samples, Commissioner Kumar explained that there was a delay in collecting the samples, which were taken around 11 pm on Sunday, hours after the offence was registered.

 

However, he emphasised that the blood report is not the cornerstone of their case. Extra blood samples were collected for verification at another lab to ensure accuracy.

 

The case has been registered under IPC section 304, which pertains to culpable homicide not amounting to murder, rather than the initially applied section 304A for death by negligence. This change reflects the serious nature of the offence, acknowledging that the juvenile was aware of the consequences of driving under the influence.

 

An ACP-level officer has been assigned to the investigation to ensure a thorough probe and to gather evidence comprehensively. Special counsels will be appointed to represent the police's case effectively in court.

 

Addressing allegations of police misconduct, Kumar stated that a stringent approach has been maintained from the outset. The police are investigating why section 304 was not initially applied and are committed to taking action against any officers found to be derelict in their duties.

 

Additionally, Kumar dismissed rumours of preferential treatment, including allegations that the juvenile was given pizzas and burgers at the police station. He assured that no such privileges were provided.

 

The police are also examining reports that some eyewitnesses were pressured. Strict action will be taken against any officers found to be involved in such activities.

 

The incident occurred early on Sunday when the Porsche, allegedly driven by the 17-year-old who was reportedly intoxicated, collided with a motorbike, killing two software engineers.

 

The juvenile was initially granted bail by the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) but was later remanded to an observation home until June 5 following a public outcry and a police review plea.

 

The teenager's father has also been arrested as part of the ongoing investigation.