SUV bomb scare case: Forensic expert explains how gait is compared to identify suspect

A screengrab of a CCTV camera footage shows a man in PPE suit walk past the explosives-laden Scorpio

To compare the gait of Assistant Police Inspector Sachin Waze with that of the man spotted in PPE suit outside industrialist Mukesh Ambani's residence Antilia on the night of February 25, the NIA is likely to conduct forensic podiatry. An expert, while speaking to mid-day, explains how this forensic science works.

Dr Hemlata Pandey, a forensic expert from Mumbai's KEM hospital, said, "In forensic podiatry, foot or footprints of an individual in a crime scene or CCTV footage is studied to get the walking patterns of criminals. The investigators measure the step as well as stride lengths, and the length of foot and ankle to further match with the walking or gait patterns of the suspect in the footage."

"Even if the suspect has fully covered his/her body, s/he can be identified using" forensic podiatry, which is used widely in Western countries.

Forensic podiatry
Sources said the National Investigation Agency (NIA) may opt for ‘forensic podiatry' to find out if the man in the PPE suit was Waze or an accomplice of his.

Meanwhile, Waze was taken to JJ Hospital on Monday for medical check-up. Waze complained of chest pain following his arrest on Saturday night.

"Today afternoon, Waze was brought to hospital for a clinical check up and was examined and sent back. We have no details," said Dr Sanjay Surase, superintendent of JJ Hospital.

Suspended again
Nine months after resuming work in the force post 16 years of remaining suspended, the tainted and controversial police officer API Vaze has been suspended for the second time post his arrest. "API Sachin Vaze has been placed under suspension, by an order of additional CP Special Branch," said the Mumbai police PRO.