J&K: Theft accused dies in police custody at CHC Batote, inquiry ordered

Banihal, Feb 18: A person detained in connection with a theft case at Police Station Batote in Ramban district has tragically passed away at the Community Health Center (CHC) Batote on Tuesday evening.

The deceased, identified as Abid Ahmad, son of Mohammad Aslam, a resident of Thopal Batote, was reportedly arrested in connection with the theft of equipment from the Oxygen plant at Batote Hospital. According to police sources, Abid was initially detained by Batote police a few days ago.

On Tuesday afternoon, he complained of abdominal pain and was taken to the Batote government hospital for medical attention. After receiving treatment, he was discharged and returned to the police station.

However, hospital officials reported that around 6 p.m. the same day, Abid was brought back to the facility in an unconscious state and was declared dead upon arrival.

In light of the incident, District Magistrate Ramban, Baseer ul Haq Choudhury, has ordered a magisterial inquiry to investigate the circumstances leading to Abid's death.

Meanwhile, hospital officials also confirmed that the deceased's relatives reportedly misbehaved with staff at Batote Hospital following the death.