IAF requests joint probe in hit-and-run case

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has placed a formal request with police for a joint probe into the sensational hit-and-run case in Kolkata that led to the death of a young IAF officer on January 13.

An IAF officer said the formal proposal was given last week to police, and their response was awaited.

"In addition, the air force has also requested police for a list of witnesses and all other evidence collected by police to help complete own Court of Inquiry. These witnesses would later be required to depose before the Court of Inquiry."

Sambia, son of former Rashtriya Janata Dal legislator Mohammad Sohrab, driving his car is alleged to have broken through police barricades before fatally knocking down IAF corporal Abhimanyu Gaud in the morning of January 13 on the Indira Gandhi Sarani, while Gaud was supervising the Republic Day parade rehearsal.

Sambia and two others have been arrested with regard to the incident. They have been sent to police custody till January 30.

"With just a few days to go for the term of custody of the accused in the hit and run case to get over, the curiosity of the parents of late Corporal Goud is also increasing.

The victim's father of the victim called Air Vice Marshal K.P.U.K. Nair, the Air Officer Commanding of Advance Headquarters of the Eastern Air Command, on Republic Day and expressed his concerns over what lay ahead once the term of custody gets over.

"He also expressed his desire to meet the Air Vice Marshal in person to seek support as his concerns were being fuelled by media reports that the case may get prolonged and there may not be an early end in sight. He was assured by the Air Officer of all possible support in ensuring speedy delivery of justice," said the officer.