MUMBAI SERIAL RAPIST MURDER CASE

ABSTRACT:

Sexual violence, specifically rape is considered as one of the most heinous crimes towards humanity. The studies states that the actual number of rape cases are actually much higher than the ones being reported. Failed trials and justice could be considered as a major drawback in our criminal justice systems. This leaves the criminal with no fear and hence in the case of rape the person is set to commit the gruesome activity once again, therefore becoming a serial rapist. The minor girls are an easy target as they are young enough not to understand what is being done to them and hence the criminal is less prone to be caught.

Keywords: 

Murder; Crime Scene Investigation; Rape; Serial Rapist; DNA Evidence.

INTRODUCTION:

In recent times, Forensic Science has proved to be of immense help in carrying out criminal investigations. Today’s technology used in Forensics allows us variety of ways to carry out an investigation. DNA database created by the government is one such method to keep a good amount of criminal information.

A case was brought to light in Mumbai where a 34-year-old suspected serial child rapist was arrested as it was discovered that he was allegedly involved in the rape and murder of 2 minor girls 8 years ago, back in 2010. The DNA database of almost 950 criminals were tested and that of Rehan Abdul Qureshi, the suspect, matched with the samples taken from the bodies of the 2 victims. Hence cracking the 8 years old case.

CASE STUDY REPORT:

Qureshi was the accused in almost 20 cases, 9 in Navi Mumbai, 3 in Palghar, 2 in Thane rural, 1 in Thane and 5 in Mumbai. Out of these, 2 resulted in the murder of the minor victims. When he was arrested for almost 12 cases of raping minor girls, the reports surfaced that he was behind the rape and murder of the 2 girls, aged 5 and 8, 8 years ago. Evidently, the DNA profiling of the accused was done and it matched with that of the girls, providing the proof of his involvement in the said crimes. Upon interrogation, Qureshi confessed to his crimes. According to the investigation, it was revealed that Qureshi would lure the girls and then take them to a secluded terrace where they were used by him for his sexual desires. He forced them to undress and if they raised an alarm, he would rape them.

FORENSIC INVESTIGATION:

Qureshi was arrested after it was confirmed that he was behind the rape and murder of the 2 girls, 8 years ago. Almost 950 samples were tested before Qureshi’s matched with that taken from the bodies of the 2 deceased girls. Location of Qureshi was also confirmed during the crimes. The accused was traced through the CCTV recordings and the photos where he is seen wearing a blue shirt and talking on the phone were circulated resulting in the accused being caught.

CONCLUSION:

DNA is unique to every individual, except twins. It can be collected from blood, urine, saliva, hair, sweat, etc. DNA evidence has become an important part of the investigations specially in sexual assault cases. A huge collection of DNA profiles results in the setting up of a DNA database system. DNA samples are analysed which allows the forensic scientists to compare the profile of the perpetrator against a large database of thousands. Such perpetrators tend to be serial criminals; therefore, it becomes necessary to bring them to the prosecution for the sake of justice.

Written By: 

Ms Harshita Niranjan

Volunteer of AFRS