odisha news: Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Jan 18: In a new development in the death of former Health Minister Naba Das, the State Forensic Laboratory (SFL) report has revealed the use of multiple firearms in the incident, raising suspicions about the involvement of additional shooters apart from the prime accused, Gopal Das.
Gopal Das, a sacked ASI, was accused of firing three rounds during the public gathering in Jharsuguda on January 29, 2023, where Naba Das was fatally shot. However, the SFL report indicates one bullet struck the minister while five others hit an accompanying government vehicle. Notably, five gunshot holes were found on the left side of the rear vehicle.
The Crime Branch chargesheet revealed that Naba Das and his aides traveled in two vehicles. A magazine with 18 bullets and three unfired rounds was recovered from Gopal Das. Of the six bullets accounted for, three were unused, one hit Naba Das, and one was fired into the air.
Defence lawyer Naresh Nayak suggested a possible sniper involvement, citing the precision of the attack. He alleged that Gopal Das fired blanks after hearing a loud sound, resembling a cracker blast, and raised questions about missing evidence, including Naba Das’ blood-stained shirt and car seat towel.
