Custodial death: 3 cops suspended

CHENNAI: Three policemen were suspended on Sunday in connection with the custodial death of a 34-year-old man at Virugambakkam, even as an inquiry by a Judicial Magistrate has begun.Crime Inspector (Vadapala­ni) Natesan, Special Sub-Inspector V K Murthy and Head Constable Murugesan were suspended on charges of negligence of duty, a press release said. Departmental action has also been ordered against the trio. Saidapet 21st Judicial Magistrate Chandr­an is conducting an inquiry following a report from the police.Police said K Muthu, a resi­dent of Virugambakkam, was arrested on Saturday in connection with a theft. He reportedly attempted to escape when he was being tak­en to the crime scene for inve­stigation. The statement said policemen chased and caught Muthu, who later complained of chest pain and drowsiness. He was taken to a private hospital where he died.