3 cops suspended over suicide of theft suspect in station

Bengaluru: Following the suicide of a 59-year-old accused at MK Doddi police station, three police personnel, including an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI), have been suspended. The action was ordered by Police Commissioner Srinivas Gowda in response to procedural lapses in handling the case.

The suspended officers include ASI Pratap, constables Lakshminarayana and Somnath. The decision highlights accountability measures being enforced within the Bengaluru South district police to ensure proper conduct during the detention of individuals under investigation.

The incident occurred on August 20, when Ramesh of Doddanahalli village in Maddur of Mandya district was arrested on charges of theft and taken to MK Doddi police station in Channapatna taluk. While in custody, Ramesh reportedly committed suicide in the station’s restroom.

Initial reports suggest that the police personnel on duty may have failed to follow standard safety protocols, which led to the tragic outcome. The Police Department has stated that a thorough internal investigation will be conducted to identify the lapses and prevent similar incidents in the future.

The suspension of the three officers serves as a stern warning to all law enforcement staff about the importance of adhering to custodial procedures and safeguarding the well-being of detainees. The incident has raised public concerns over police accountability and the need for stricter monitoring of custody practices.

Authorities have assured the public that corrective measures will be implemented promptly to restore confidence in police operations across the district.