Hyderabad: In a significant development in the Nampally FSL fire case, a Nagpur special team confirmed that the blaze destroyed 1,100 files and declared data recovery not possible.
The fire broke out on February 7 on the first floor of the Forensic Science Laboratory building in Nampally. Subsequently, investigators found that flames gutted around 50 computers and several seized hard disks that stored technical evidence in serious criminal cases.
After assessing the damage, the special team concluded that retrieving digital data would not be possible. As a result, investigators may have permanently lost crucial electronic records.
Sources indicated that some of the destroyed files contained key evidence related to ongoing investigations. In particular, scientific records linked to the high-profile phone tapping case were reportedly among the material reduced to ashes.
However, officials have not yet released a complete inventory of the damaged files. Meanwhile, authorities continue to evaluate the overall impact.
Nampally FSL fire impact on criminal investigations
The Forensic Science Laboratory supports police in investigating crimes across the State. Whenever a major offence occurs, officers send samples and digital evidence to the lab for analysis.
Experts examine fingerprints, blood samples, hair strands and DNA traces. In addition, they analyse firearms, bullets, poisons and narcotic substances.
Moreover, specialists verify disputed signatures and examine forged documents. Consequently, the lab handles evidence in murder, robbery, sexual assault and fraud cases.
With 1,100 files destroyed in the Nampally FSL fire, concerns have intensified over pending investigations. Therefore, officials now face pressure to assess the fallout and determine corrective steps.
So far, authorities have not outlined specific remedial measures. Nevertheless, the probe into the Nampally FSL fire continues.