PANJIM: The High Court of Bombay at Goa on Monday postponed the hearing on the bail application filed by Shripad alias Paresh Sinai Sawardekar, the accused driver in the Banastarim horrific accident case to Thursday, August 24.
During the hearing, the Crime Branch sought postponement of the hearing stating that statements of Paresh’s wife Meghana Sawardekar, who is the owner of the killer Mercedes and two others need to be recorded. Meghana’s statement will be recorded before the Ponda Magistrate on Monday itself while statement of two others will be recorded on Wednesday, the government advocate told the Court.
Three persons had died while three others were seriously injured in the accident that took place on August 6 due to rash, negligent and drunken driving. Paresh is presently remanded in 14 days judicial custody.
Later in the day, Meghana Sawardekar and her son’s statement was recorded before the Ponda Magistrate on Monday morning. Recording of statement went on for almost three hours. The statement of remaining two children will be recorded on Wednesday, it was informed.
The aftermath of the accident case has led to a noteworthy transfer from the Mardol police station to the Crime Branch, Ribandar. The investigation team, led by DySP (Crime Branch) Suraj Halarnkar along with PI Narayan Chimulkar, has been formed specifically for this purpose.
This specialised team is tasked with delving into the accident case meticulously.
As part of their rigorous efforts, the team has commenced the collection of crucial evidence. Notably, an airbag from the driver’s side, bearing traces of bloodstains, has been secured as a vital piece of evidence. This strategic approach underscores the Crime Branch’s commitment to a comprehensive and impartial investigation.
As the investigation progresses, the team has received a directive to prepare a detailed progress report every fortnight. This report will be submitted to the SP (Crime Branch) Nidhin Valsan.
