No independent probe abroad, CID awaiting Singapore’s cooperation under MLAT: CID SDGP Munna Prasad Gupta

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has shared new developments in the ongoing investigation into the death of legendary singer Zubeen Garg, with CID Additional Director General of Police (SDGP) Munna Prasad Gupta addressing key aspects during a press briefing on Saturday, October 11.

Gupta clarified that Indian authorities cannot independently conduct investigations in foreign jurisdictions. Any inquiry abroad must be carried out under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) framework. He informed that all relevant information has been officially forwarded to the Attorney General’s Office in Singapore, and communication with the Indian High Commission in Singapore is currently ongoing.

“The CID cannot operate in Singapore without cooperation from the local authorities. Our assistance request was routed through the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, and has reached the appropriate legal office in Singapore,” Gupta said. He added that the Singapore government has confirmed that no Indian officials will be allowed to carry out on-site investigations, but coordination and data exchange are being facilitated through diplomatic channels.

On the forensic front, Gupta revealed that the viscera report has been received and sent to the Guwahati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) for expert examination. A specialized medical committee has been constituted to cross-verify the viscera findings with the postmortem report.

“The expert committee will prepare a consolidated report once both analyses are reconciled. The final report is expected to be handed over to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma within the next two days,” Gupta said.

A portion of the report, officials confirmed, will also be made available to select journalists and political representatives to ensure transparency in the investigation.

Gupta further disclosed that a notice has been issued to Assamese expatriates connected to the case. “One individual has already appeared before the Special Investigation Team (SIT), while the names of 11 expatriates have been recorded so far,” he stated.

He warned that legal action will be taken against any expatriate who fails to cooperate with the investigation. “Though the initial deadline for their appearance has passed, a fresh time frame has been provided, and they are expected to comply,” Gupta added.

The CID official confirmed that two personal staff members of Zubeen Garg have been arrested and remain under interrogation. Their custody is being maintained strictly in accordance with legal procedures, with a maximum remand period of 14 days.

Gupta reiterated that the CID remains committed to ensuring a fair, transparent, and conclusive investigation, adding that all angles—domestic and international—are being thoroughly examined.