The mobile phones seized from arrested Swam Telecom promoter Shahid Usman Balwa form key evidence and their data have to be examined as part of the ongoing probe in 2G spectrum case involving former Telecom Minister A Raja, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told a Delhi Court today opposing the corporate honcho's plea to release his phones.
"Mobile phones these days are very advanced with various features and this has to be looked into. It is a case of criminal conspiracy and forensic evidence is necessary. It is a primary evidence and thus we are opposing its release," CBI prosecutor Akhilesh told Special Judge OP Saini.
Balwa's phones had been seized during his arrest.
The CBI, however, told the court that if Balwa requires various data stored in his phone, he can approach the investigating officer of the case.
Advocate Vijay Aggarwal, appearing for Balwa, argued if CBI considers his client's call details as evidence, it should get the same from the concerned telecom company instead and release his phones from their custody.
The court adjourned the hearing on Balwa's plea to March 29.