Theft case suspect dies in custody

A ‘custodial death’ was reported at Nuggehalli in Channarayapatna taluk of the district on Friday.

Avinash (28) of Belaguli village died soon after he was taken into custody by the police. Avinash was wanted in a theft case and he was absconding for many days.

NH 75

On a tip-off, the police took Avinash and another accused, Pavan, into custody on National Highway 75 on Friday.

Avinash died when the police were taking the duo to the Nuggehalli police station in a vehicle. The parents of Avinash, who arrived at the police station, alleged foul play as there were assault injuries on his body. However, the police claim that the death was natural.

Sub-Inspector Madhu, in the report to the higher officer, has mentioned that Avinash collapsed and he was shifted to a private hospital, but he died. Later, the body was shifted to the mortuary of the Hassan district hospital.

Inquiry

Following the charges of custodial death, Sagar Gurugouda Patil, principal civil judge, Channarayapatna, visited the mortuary and conducted an inquiry of the relatives of the deceased for nearly three hours.

Superintendent of Police Chethan Singh Rathore said a case of ‘custodial death’ had been registered and the Holenarasipur DySP was investigating the case.

“The judge has recorded the statements of the family members of the deceased. The investigation will be conducted based on the statements,” the SP said.