Doctors had thrown blood sample in dustbin

The endeavour was to protect the accused

Clean chit to accused had raised eyebrows

Two doctors from Sassoon Hospital in Pune have been arrested for allegedly tampering with evidence in the investigation of a deadly crash involving a Porsche. Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar announced the arrests on Monday, revealing that the head of the forensics department, Dr Ajay Taware, and another doctor, Dr Shrihari Halnor, are accused of switching the blood samples of the minor involved in the accident.

Also Read: Pune road rage: Opposition alleges pizza, burger served to minor at police station

The incident came to light when the forensic report of the initial blood sample, taken from the minor on the day of the accident, May 19, indicated no alcohol presence. This raised suspicions as the circumstances of the crash suggested otherwise. A subsequent blood test conducted at a different hospital, along with DNA analysis, confirmed that the samples were from two different individuals, leading investigators to suspect foul play.

Commissioner Kumar explained that Dr. Halnor, who had collected the blood sample, confessed during interrogation that he switched the sample under the direction of Dr. Taware. The minor’s original blood sample, which likely contained alcohol, was disposed of in a dustbin.

The arrests have added serious charges to the case, including criminal conspiracy, forgery, and destruction of evidence. The police are continuing their investigation to uncover the extent of the tampering and any further involvement.

The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting issues of integrity and accountability within forensic and medical examinations related to legal investigations.