Blood samples taken outside CCTV, syringe handed over: Pune police.
In the ongoing investigation into the Pune Porsche crash case, police disclosed to the court that blood samples crucial to the case were obtained outside the purview of CCTV cameras. While the identities of those involved in the alleged blood sample tampering remain undisclosed officially, authorities revealed that the substituted blood belonged to the minor’s mother.
The incident, which occurred on May 19, involved a minor allegedly driving a Porsche at high speed under the influence of alcohol, resulting in a fatal collision with two software engineers riding a bike, leading to their demise. Subsequently, the minor was detained, while his father and grandfather faced arrests in connection with the incident.
Attention swiftly turned to the involvement of medical professionals from B J Government Medical College and Sassoon General Hospital accused of swapping the minor’s blood sample with another person’s and discarding it. Dr. Sunil Taware, former head of the forensic department at Sassoon Hospital, Dr. Shrihari Harnol, the casualty medical officer at the time, and a Class IV employee, Atul Ghatkamble, were presented before the court by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sunil Tambe, seeking an extension of their remand. Special Judge PP Jadhav granted the police’s request, extending the remand until June 5.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that the syringe utilized by Dr. Harnol for drawing the minor’s blood was not disposed of but instead handed over to an unidentified individual. Prosecution lawyer Nitin Konge emphasized that blood samples were deliberately collected in an area devoid of CCTV coverage within Sassoon hospital. Additionally, efforts are underway to locate and seize the seal bearing the minor’s name affixed to the substituted blood sample submitted for testing.
Police also disclosed the recovery of Rs. 3 lakh from the accused, invoking section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act in the case. The ACP highlighted the necessity for further interrogation to identify additional accomplices and assets accumulated through corrupt practices. Prosecution lawyer Konge stressed the importance of collecting handwriting samples from the accused.
In response, defense attorneys Vipul Dushing, Rhishikesh Ganu, and Ruturaj Ranaware opposed the extension of police custody for the accused. Advocate Dushing argued that Dr. Taware was not present at the location where the alleged blood sample substitution occurred and justified communication between him and his colleague, Dr. Harnol, as routine professional interaction.
As the investigation continues, the case underscores the intricate web of allegations and legal complexities surrounding the Pune Porsche crash. With crucial evidence surfacing and key players in custody, the pursuit of justice in this tragic incident remains at the forefront of legal proceedings.