Pune: DNA Test Ordered for Main Accused in Bopdev Ghat Gang Rape Case
Pune, 17th October 2024: The DNA test of Shoaib Akhtar, also known as Shoaib Babu Sheikh, an accused in the Bopdev Ghat gang rape case, is set to be conducted. Reportedly, the accused had spat at the crime scene.
On Wednesday (16th October), police informed the court that blood, nail, and saliva samples of Sheikh would be sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory for examination. First Class Magistrate AA Kulkarni ordered that Sheikh remain in police custody until 22nd October.
On 3rd October, the suspects gang-raped a young woman who was out for a walk with a friend at Bopdev Ghat. Sheikh was arrested by the Crime Branch in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, while his accomplice, Chandrakumar Raviprasad Kanojia (20), had been apprehended earlier. A search is ongoing for the third suspect in the case. Sheikh is the main accused, and a separate case of rape and robbery had been registered against him at Bhigwan police station.
Public prosecutor Amrapali Kasture stated that the accused had threatened the victim and her friend and stolen a gold chain, a gold pendant, and a silver ring from the woman. The stolen items, along with compensation, are to be recovered from the accused. After committing the crime, the suspects fled on a bike, which is also to be confiscated. The investigation will further look into who sheltered Sheikh after he fled.
Kasture also requested police custody for Sheikh to conduct a potency test. The court accepted the argument and remanded Sheikh in custody until 22nd October.
Police Inspector Yuvraj Hande of Crime Branch Unit 5, under the guidance of Additional Police Commissioner (Crime) Shailesh Balakwade, DCP (Crime Branch) Nikhil Pingle, and ACP Ganesh Ingle, is continuing the investigation.
