258. Investigation on the spot. [§ 12, Act V, 1861].
- If the officer-in-charge of a police-station decides that an investigation is necessary, after despatching a First Information Report, he shall himself proceed to the spot or depute a subordinate to hold an enquiry, who shall not be below t,he rank of Assistant Sub-Inspector. In a case where the complaint is not of a serious nature, and is made against a person known, clause (a) of section 157, Code of Criminal Procedure, does away with the legal necessity for a local investigation, but it is very seldom that advantage should be taken of this section. In rural areas, it is permissible only when a case of a simple nature is brought to the police complete, the complainant and witnesses being present. In towns, the investigation may be conducted at the police-station if it is close to the scene of crime.
