Jahangir Ali : “15 Arrested for Stone-Throwing at Police Outpost After Death in Custody”

Authorities in Assam have apprehended fifteen individuals, including two minors, for allegedly throwing stones at a police outpost in Lakhimpur district. This incident occurred following the tragic death of a man in police custody earlier this week, according to Director General of Police Gyanendra Pratap Singh.

Singh revealed on social media that the group had been found in possession of materials related to arson during searches, and CCTV footage had been obtained as evidence against them. Additionally, the DGP announced the revocation of the suspension of two police officials linked to the deceased man, Arshab Ali’s demise.

The 42-year-old Ali, a resident of South Chandmari village in Lakhimpur, passed away while in police custody at the Khelmati police outpost. He had been detained in connection with a mobile phone theft case along with four others. Two of the detainees were primary suspects in the theft, while the remaining three, including Ali, were accused of purchasing the stolen devices.

According to reports, Ali collapsed and lost consciousness while seated on a bench at the outpost. He was rushed to Lakhimpur Medical College but was pronounced dead upon arrival. The news of his demise incited public outrage, resulting in locals surrounding the outpost and pelting stones at police officers. The situation was later brought under control by authorities.

Following the incident, the Assam Police suspended two personnel in connection with the custodial death. However, DGP Singh later revealed that a postmortem report indicated Ali had died due to pre-existing coronary disease, which affects the heart’s major blood vessels.

Singh instructed the District SP to withdraw the suspension orders issued to the policemen, including the Inspector-in-Charge, but assured that a detailed investigation and necessary follow-up would continue. He also mentioned that appropriate legal action was being pursued against the fifteen individuals allegedly involved in the arson plot.