Bhubaneswar: Crime Branch Director General of Police (DGP) Vinaytosh Mishra on Monday said the investigation into the Gopalpur gang-rape case is progressing swiftly, with digital and forensic evidence playing a pivotal role.
Acting on the instructions of the DGP Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, the Crime Against Women and Children (CAW & CW) Wing has taken over the probe. Inspector General of CAW & CW S. Shyni has already visited the crime scene.
“The local police have arrested all 10 accused. The case is being handled seriously and we are confident of ensuring strict punishment,” Mishra told reporters.
He stated that the DNA profiling of the accused has been completed and digital evidence, including CCTV footage from the area and data from seized mobile phones, has been collected.
“The footage captured the movement of the accused before and after the crime. The mobile phones are being analysed and extracted data is being preserved as digital evidence,” Mishra said.
The collected material has been sent to the State Forensic Science Laboratory (SFSL) for examination. Based on the report, the chargesheet will be filed shortly.
The incident took place on Gopalpur beach on June 15, where a 20-year-old college student was allegedly gang-raped by a group of ten youths from the Hinjili area of Ganjam district. The victim and her male friend had gone to the beach to celebrate the Raja festival. According to police, the group overpowered her friend and took turns raping the young woman. Some of the accused are reportedly minors.
“As a specialised agency, we are focusing on collecting every form of direct and circumstantial evidence. Digital evidence is crucial and is being properly preserved and examined. We aim to complete the investigation soon,” Mishra said.
He further informed that the agency is working within the stipulated 45-day period to conclude the investigation in the interest of prosecution. The victim is being provided with psychological counselling and compensation under the relevant schemes.
“The evidence is strong and sufficient. All necessary steps are being taken to ensure justice,” the DGP added.
