One dies in police custody

Bagaha, Nov 16 (UNI) One Gaurav Verma of Piprakutti village died in police custody under Balmiki Nagar police station area in West Champaran district last night.

Commandant of Shasastra Seema Bal (SSB) H R Barott today said Gaurav was arrested for his involvement in smuggling of wood and possessing illegal cartridges. Later, he was brought to Balmiki Nagar police station for interrogation where he consumed some poisonous substance.

''In view of his deteriorating condition, Gaurav was admitted to Balmiki Nagar hospital from where he was being shifted to Sub-Divisional hospital when he succumbed midway,'' police added.

Meanwhile, relatives of the deceased alleged that police meted out third degree torture to Gaurav which led to his death.

Patrolling had been intensified in the area to check any untoward incident due to protests following the death of Gaurav.

UNI XC-KKS DPM RN1611