Naba Das' murder: 8 bullets fired at former Odisha Minister, forensic report adds new twist

New revelations have come to light in the ongoing investigation into the assassination of former BJD minister Naba Das. Forensic reports have indicated that multiple firearms were used during the crime, raising suspicion of the involvement of more shooters apart from Gopal Das.

According to the forensic science laboratory's report from the crime scene, one bullet struck the minister while five bullets were found to have hit an accompanying government vehicle. This finding challenges earlier assumptions that implicated only one suspect, Gopal Das, suggesting potential involvement of more individuals in the murder plot.

Defence lawyer Naresh Nayak has speculated about the possible involvement of a sniper, due to the precise nature of the attack. On January 29, 2023, according to the chargesheet filed by the Crime Branch, Naba Das was en route to Brajarajnagar Gandhi Chowk, travelling in two separate vehicles. Das was in the leading car, with his aides following in another.

Also Read: Timeline of Minister Naba Das’ Assassination, Accused Gopal Das' Suspicious Confessions to Case Reopening Move

During the investigation, authorities discovered a magazine with 18 bullets and three unfired rounds from Gopal Das. This situation report claims that of the six bullets, three were retrieved unfired, one hit Naba Das in the chest, another was not discharged, and the last fired into the air.

However, forensic findings contrast with this account, especially regarding the second vehicle—a white Toyota Innova—found with five bullet holes. The absence of shell casings for bullets that hit the second vehicle raises further queries about the trajectory and origin of the shots.

The firearm responsible for the bullet that struck Mr Das remains undetermined, fuelling further intrigue around Gopal Das's involvement and beyond.

Analysis and Implications

While the bullets found align with Gopal Das's weapon, the source of the bullet that fatally wounded Naba Das is still uncertain. The investigation continues to probe deeper into these developments, aiming to uncover all involved in this high-profile case.

Unnamed Sources and Lost Shells

The SFSL (State Forensic Science Laboratory) suggests discrepancies that point towards multiple shooters. There is controversy surrounding the missing shell casings of bullets that struck Naba Das's vehicle, adding layers to an already intricate investigation.

Naba Das Murder Case Timeline

On the fateful day of January 29, 2023, the then Health Minister Naba Das was shot dead by Assistant Sub Inspector Gopal Das from a close range in Jharsuguda. Notably, ASI Gopal Das was deployed at Gandhi chhak in Brajrajnagar for traffic management as Health Minister Naba Das was scheduled to attend a programme nearby.

As soon as Naba Das reached the venue and was getting down from his vehicle, his supporters rushed to welcome him. Gopal Das too went closer and before anyone could understand anything, he opened fire at the Minister.

Naba Das, who was severely injured in the attack, was immediately rushed to Jharsuguda District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) and then he was airlifted to a private hospital in Bhubaneswar where he succumbed to his injuries.