Mumbai Crime Branch Takes Over Fake PMO ID Case

The Mumbai Crime Branch's Crime Intelligence Unit (CIU) has taken over the investigation into a case involving a purported fake Prime Minister's Office (PMO) identity card used to enter Jio World Plaza in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) on September 7.

Rohan Premal Parekh and his bodyguard Dilip Rajaram Kunde were arrested for allegedly using the fake ID card to gain entry into the premises, a day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Mumbai. The police have served a notice at the residence of wanted accused Prathamesh Bagul, who is currently absconding.

During the hearing before the Esplanade Court, Parekh's lawyers claimed that some individuals had approached him offering a role connected with the PMO and had sent him emails and documents in connection with the purported appointment. However, police sources said that so far, the investigation has not found any evidence of such emails or official documents supporting the claim.

The investigators are now verifying the authenticity of the documents and communications allegedly referred to by the defence, besides examining the role of the persons who allegedly approached Parekh. Parekh's father, Premal Parekh, who is reportedly involved in the diamond and stock market businesses, has also appeared before the Crime Branch in connection with the ongoing inquiry.

On September 7, Parekh, Kunde, and Bagul entered Jio World Plaza, where a licensed revolver was allegedly found with them during security screening. The trio allegedly showed an identity card bearing the name of the PMO, Government of India, following which they were allowed to enter the premises.

The police traced Parekh to Khar and detained him based on CCTV footage and the vehicle registration number. During questioning, he allegedly told investigators that Kunde and Bagul were accompanying him as bodyguards. Police subsequently arrested Kunde and recovered a revolver, six live cartridges, and a holster from his possession.

The defence claims that Parekh may have been duped by a person named Tarun Kapoor, who offered him an advisory position allegedly connected with the PMO and sent him emails and documents relating to the purported role. However, the police have so far found no independent confirmation of the alleged PMO-related appointment or the emails cited by the defence.

The investigation is ongoing, and the police are examining the authenticity of the alleged communications, identifying the persons who contacted Parekh, and determining whether the documents were genuine or fake.

The case has raised concerns about the security measures in place at sensitive locations like Jio World Plaza, especially when high-profile visits are scheduled. The police are taking all necessary steps to ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future.

In conclusion, the Mumbai Crime Branch's investigation into the alleged fake PMO ID case is ongoing, and the police are working to uncover the truth behind the incident. The case highlights the importance of robust security measures and the need for vigilance in preventing such incidents from occurring in the future.