The investigation into the purported Bhagwant Mann viral video has taken a fresh turn, with Gurugram Police confirming that the two forensic laboratories cited in reports related to the controversy do not exist.
Earlier, AAP had cited forensic reports to support its claim that the viral video featuring Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was doctored and that the person seen in the clip was not the CM.
Speaking exclusively to CNN-News18, police officials said both laboratories mentioned in the investigation were found to be fake and had no physical presence on the ground. The development has raised further questions over the forensic reports that had allegedly concluded that the person seen in the video was not the Punjab Chief Minister.
Two Arrested, More Questioning Underway
Police
have arrested two accused in the case- Arun Mehandru, 25, a resident of Aggarsain Colony in Haryana’s Sirsa district, and Ankit, 25, from Kharak Gagar village in Jind district.
According to the offcials said further interrogation of the accused is underway to ascertain the identities of others involved in the alleged conspiracy.
Complaint Alleges Bid To Secure Tailored Report
According to the complaint, the complainant, who works in the field of digital forensics, cyber investigation and electronic evidence analysis, was allegedly approached by individuals claiming to be senior Punjab government officials.
The complainant alleged that he was asked to arrange a forensic report on the viral video in a manner that would support a predetermined conclusion. The objective, according to the complaint, was to deny the identity of the person appearing in the video and portray allegations linked to it as false.
He further stated that he was introduced to several individuals for the purpose and that forensic reports were allegedly prepared in the names of suspicious or non-genuine cyber and forensic institutions.
Focus On Financial Trail, Digital Evidence
Gurugram Police said investigators are examining the identities of those who prepared the purported forensic and cyber reports, the legal status of the institutions that issued them, and the financial transactions linked to the alleged conspiracy.
Electronic devices, documents and other material evidence recovered during the investigation are also being subjected to scientific examination.
Police said efforts are underway to identify and arrest other people allegedly involved in the case. Officials added that assistance from agencies and technical experts in other states would be sought if required.
The investigation is being carried out with “utmost seriousness, professionalism and transparency”, police said.
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