Pradeep Purnekar
The court granted five days’ custody, remanding them till Oct 13. The probe is also focusing on a possible dispute dating back to 1997. Ram Purnekar, son of the deceased, reportedly told investigators that he had seen the accused together on Sept 24.
Shailesh Salvi, senior police inspector of the crime branch, said investigators were probing who supplied the accused with the weapons and where they underwent firing practice. Five weapons are being probed in connection with the attack — two pistols and three choppers, according to the crime branch. These aspects were raised during the remand proceedings, as investigators sought seven days’ police custody of Nikhil Yadav and Nitesh Pawar . Police are also trying to identify the alleged mastermind behind the murder and establish whether others helped the accused procure the weapons or prepare for the attack. Police have so far recovered one pistol. Investigators are attempting to trace the remaining weapons and establish how they reached the accused. Police are also examining the accused’s bank accounts and financial transactions as part of the investigation. Investigators are trying to determine whether any money trail could provide clues about the motive, procurement of weapons or involvement of other persons. Police have recorded the statement of Purnekar’s brother, Jayanath, to gather details about the alleged longstanding dispute. The investigating team is also examining why the accused were allegedly seen at common locations. Police are examining this information along with other evidence to establish the sequence of events.
Two bullets were found in Purnekar’s body, while other bullets were recovered from the ground, according to details presented by the complainant’s side. A live cartridge was also found during the investigation. Investigators are examining the quality of the ammunition used in the attack and other forensic evidence.