Cops to install CCTVs in lock-ups

AGRIPADA DEATH

By Mateen Hafeez Times News Network

Mumbai: Had there been a closed circuit television (CCTV) in Agripada lock-up, accountant Premanth Rao may have been alive today.

Police said Rao, accused of theft by his employer, allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself in the toilet. His family, however, insist that he died of torture. Sources said the CCTV could have helped investigators find out the truth behind Rao’s death.

The lock-ups in some police stations such as LT Marg police station, DB Marg police station and Nagpada have CCTVs to help the police keep an eye on the accused.

However, most criminals arrested for serious offences are kept in central lock-ups—16 in number—and none one of them have CCTVs. “We plan to install CCTVs in all the central lock-ups and it will be implemented soon,’’ said joint commissioner of police (law and order) Arup Patnaik.

When Rao allegedly committed suicide, two policemen from Agripada—constable Salahuddin Sayyed and assistant sub-inspector Pandurang Gaikwad—along with a constable of the local arms unit were present in the lock-up.

The trio, along with sub-inspector Pramod Pawar of the NM Joshi Marg police, has been suspended.

The Times of India, April 10, 2006