Assam police withdraws suspension of cops in Lakhimpur custodial death case
Lakhimpur: Assam police has lifted the suspension of three officers in Lakhimpur district after an investigation determined that a suspect's death in custody was due to a pre-existing heart condition, rather than misconduct.
Arsabh Ali (42) was in custody at the Khelmati police outpost in Lakhimpur district of Assam, when he passed away on the morning of May 23.
He had been detained two months earlier on charges of mobile phone theft.
Preliminary post-mortem findings indicated that Ali’s death was attributable to coronary disease, leading to the decision to reinstate the suspended officers, including the outpost in-charge.
"A detailed inquiry and mandatory follow-up will continue," stated Assam director general of police (DGP) GP Singh.
Following Ali's death, unrest erupted at the Khelmati outpost, with a mob pelting stones and preparing for potential arson.
In response, district police arrested 15 individuals, including two minors.
Materials intended for arson were seized during the arrests.
Asaam DGP GP Singh noted that the arrests were based on evidence and CCTV footage of the attack on the outpost.