Madurai, 14 November (H.S.): A 42-year-old lorry driver died while in police custody at Checkanurani police station in Madurai district on Saturday morning, where he had been questioned in connection with the alleged theft of cardamom worth over Rs 2 crore. Two police personnel who were on duty at the station have been suspended following the incident.

The deceased was identified as Balakrishnan, a resident of Uttamapalayam. He had been summoned for questioning in connection with a complaint filed by a cardamom trader over the disappearance of several bags of cardamom from a lorry that caught fire earlier this month.

According to the police, Balakrishnan was found hanging inside the toilet of the police station at around 6.30 am. Personnel on duty attempted to rescue him and shift him to hospital, but he died. The police have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

The case originated from an incident on November 3, when a lorry carrying cardamom from Bodinayakanur in Theni district towards Madurai caught fire near Valanthur. The driver had informed the fire department, whose personnel rushed to the spot and managed to salvage some of the cardamom consignments.

The trader, who reached the location after being informed about the fire, alleged that several bags of cardamom were missing and accused the driver of theft. He subsequently lodged a complaint at Valanthur police station, estimating the value of the missing cardamom at more than Rs 2 crore.

The trader also alleged that the police delayed issuing the Community Service Register (CSR) receipt required for processing his insurance claim.

Balakrishnan appeared at Checkanurani police station on the evening of November 13 for questioning in connection with the complaint. He was found dead inside the station within hours.

His family members have accused the police of assaulting him during questioning and alleged that his death was being portrayed as a suicide. They have demanded the arrest of the police personnel, including the inspector concerned, and sought compensation for the family.

Meanwhile, senior police officials, including the Madurai Deputy Inspector General and the district Superintendent of Police, have initiated an inquiry into the incident.

Southern Region Inspector General of Police Vijayendra Bidari said CCTV recordings from the police station were being examined to establish the sequence of events. He said further details would emerge after the footage was reviewed and appropriate action would be taken against personnel found responsible.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar