Thane: The Thane Crime Branch is investigating the bank accounts of the accused in Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary Pradeep Purnekar’s murder case and trying to establish who supplied them with firearms and trained them in shooting.These aspects were raised during the remand proceedings, as investigators sought seven days’ police custody of Nikhil Yadav and Nitesh Pawar. The court granted five days’ custody, remanding them till Oct 13.Shiv Sena (UBT) Manpada division chief Purnekar was shot and stabbed to death outside his office in Manpada on Sept 30.Shailesh Salvi, senior police inspector of the crime branch, said investigators were probing who supplied the accused with the weapons and where they underwent firing practice. Police are also trying to identify the alleged mastermind behind the murder and establish whether others helped the accused procure the weapons or prepare for the attack.According to the crime branch, five weapons are being probed in connection with the attack — two pistols and three choppers. Police have so far recovered one pistol. Investigators are attempting to trace the remaining weapons and establish how they reached the accused.Police are also examining the accused’s bank accounts and financial transactions as part of the investigation. Investigators are trying to determine whether any money trail could provide clues about the motive, procurement of weapons or involvement of other persons.The probe is also focusing on a possible dispute dating back to 1997. Police have recorded the statement of Purnekar’s brother, Jayanath, to gather details about the alleged longstanding dispute. The investigating team is also examining why the accused were allegedly seen at common locations.According to details presented by the complainant’s side, two bullets were found in Purnekar’s body, while other bullets were recovered from the ground. A live cartridge was also found during the investigation. Investigators are examining the quality of the ammunition used in the attack and other forensic evidence.Ram Purnekar, son of the deceased, reportedly told investigators that he had seen the accused together on Sept 24. Police are examining this information along with other evidence to establish the sequence of events.Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske said the party will not shield anyone found guilty in the Purnekar murder case and clarified that the name of former mayor Meenakshi Shinde was dragged for political reasons by the opposition and pointed out how she had already dismissed all allegations and said she was ready to face any questioning.“The Purnekars were always close to us (Shiv Sena) and his death is indeed unfortunate. No one should politicise the incident,” he said.
