KANPUR: A 32-year-old man, who was arrested in a theft case, died in custody following which 14 police officers were suspended and a magisterial probe ordered into the incident.
While the police claimed that the deceased Zeeshan fell ill due to a suicide attempt and subsequently died, his relatives alleged that he was beaten to death and pelted stones at the police station.
"The accused, Zeeshan, a resident of Keshigao, was arrested after he was suspected to be involved in a theft case on Wednesday. He was rushed to hospital after he fell ill due to a suicide attempt, but later succumbed," SP Pushpanjali Singh said.
He said a case has also been registered on the basis of statements by the victim's relatives against the SOG (Special Operation Group) team, which had arrested Zeeshan, an inspector and three other police officials. 14 police officers including an inspector who were present during the incident were also suspended.
The incident took place in Buraur village of the district yesterday, following which Zeeshan's relatives and local residents pelted stones at the police station, alleging he had been murdered in custody. "A magisterial probe has been ordered into the matter and we are trying to compensate the victim's family members," the SP said, adding that the body has been sent for post-mortem.