CID Takes Over Investigation of Bengaluru Stadium Stampede Tragedy

CID Assumes Investigation Responsibilities

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has officially taken charge of the inquiry into the tragic stampede that occurred at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on June 4, resulting in 11 fatalities and over 70 injuries. A team from the CID, led by Superintendent of Police (Special Enquiry) Shubhanwita, arrived at the stadium on Saturday afternoon to begin collecting vital evidence.

Thorough Evidence Collection Underway

Accompanied by two deputy superintendents and several police inspectors, the CID team meticulously examined entry points, secured the stadium's DVR system for forensic analysis, and interviewed personnel from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA). The CID took over the case late Friday, with the Cubbon Park Police transferring files related to three FIRs that had already been filed.

Investigation Intensifies with Arrests

Investigators were observed reviewing CCTV footage to analyze crowd dynamics before and after the incident. They also received updates from hospitals regarding the injured and deceased, courtesy of Cubbon Park officers. The investigation is entering a more focused phase, as authorities plan to request police custody of four individuals who have been arrested: Nikhil Sosale, the marketing head of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunil Mathew, director of DNA Networks, ticketing official Shamanth SP, and event manager Kiran Kumar, all currently held in judicial custody.

Government and Rights Panels Expand Inquiry

In parallel with the CID's investigation, the Karnataka government has initiated a magistrate inquiry into the stampede. Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Jagadeesha G has issued notices to over 25 injured individuals, requesting their presence to provide statements on June 11. Notices will also be sent to police officers involved in managing the event.

The Karnataka State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) has reached out to the city police commissioner, the health department, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA). T Sham Bhat, the commission's acting chairperson, stated, "Three individual complaints were filed with the Commission regarding the June 4 incident. The CID is currently investigating, and the matter is before the high court. We will await the court's guidance on whether the commission will conduct its own inquiry. For now, we are not pursuing a separate investigation."