Even as the high-profile Mungul gang war case has been committed to the Sessions Court for trial, Fatorda Police have secured a 90-day extension to conduct further investigation and file a supplementary charge sheet under Section 193(9) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. The Sessions Court granted the police’s request.
The case relates to a violent ambush and shootout on the Margao–Colva road in August last year, which caused panic among commuters and residents.
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In an application before the Sessions Judge, police said further investigation is necessary to ensure a complete and fair probe. They cited the involvement of absconding accused who fled outside Goa, pending inquiries linked to them, and the need to ascertain whether more persons were involved in the crime. Statements of additional witnesses are yet to be recorded.
Police also told the court that key forensic reports are awaited, including ballistic examination of the firearm used, DNA analysis of blood samples of the accused, victims and seized material, and that further scientific and electronic evidence may emerge.
The police said the request was bona fide and made in the interest of justice, stressing that the delay was due to the complexity of the case, multiple accused, absconding suspects and dependence on scientific evidence, and not negligence.
The move follows observations made by the Sessions Court while granting conditional bail to several accused, during which serious contradictions and gaps in the prosecution’s case were flagged. Sources said these remarks prompted police to revisit evidence, re-examine witnesses and consult the Public Prosecutor before seeking additional time to strengthen the case.
