Thane, Oct 22 Union Minister Ramdas Athawale has said a thorough probe must be carried out into the murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar so that his kin have no doubts.Shiv Sena (UBT) Manpada ward chief Pradeep Purnekar was killed on September 29. He was shot at and then attacked with sharp weapons. Five persons have been arrested in the case so far.
“While five individuals have been apprehended, the victim’s family maintains the actual masterminds are still at large. The family presented video evidence showing an accused allegedly practising for the attack. The police must thoroughly examine all crucial leads without sparing anyone,” Athawale said on Wednesday.
Purnekar’s son on Wednesday released video clips purportedly showing key accused Nikhil Yadav practising with a firearm in the presence of Rajendra Shinde, former Thane mayor Meenakshi Shinde’s husband.
Rajendra Shinde’s questioning continued for the sixth day on Thursday, officials said. He was called to the ANC office and interrogated by officials, sometimes face-to-face with the arrested accused, they added.
“No one is above the law. Strict action must be taken against everyone involved. If the bereaved family has apprehensions about the Special Investigation Team, then the Home Department should transfer the case to another capable team to ensure an impartial and transparent inquiry,” Athawale added.
The Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment said he would speak with senior police officials to expedite the investigation and ensure justice is swiftly delivered to the grieving Purnekar family.
Meanwhile, police on Thursday said a pistol and two choppers were recovered from accused Santosh Kanojia.
(PTI News)
