Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji/Valpoi

Panaji/Valpoi, May 2: A police sub-inspector posted at the Valpoi police station has been shifted to the reserve line following protests by the family of a 28-year-old man, Moin Shaikh, who died after being taken into custody.

The transfer of PSI Prathamesh Gawas came after the victim’s family and members of the local community staged a morcha to the police station on Friday, alleging bias and unfair conduct in the investigation of a complaint filed against Shaikh.

According to a senior police official, the officer has been reassigned to the reserve line at the North Goa district headquarters. Authorities also stated that several other demands raised by the family were subsequently addressed.

Family members, however, have made serious allegations regarding the handling of the case. Shaikh’s cousin, Marzina Aga, claimed that he was taken into custody after a complaint by a woman who accused him of assault. She further alleged that Shaikh was physically assaulted while in police custody and later died by suicide at home after his release.

The family also said they were not informed about his detention and only learned of it through other sources, prompting them to rush to the police station. They have additionally questioned the investigation process, alleging that the complainant was not subjected to a medical examination and that Shaikh was wrongly implicated.

The incident has triggered public concern in the region, with calls for a fair and transparent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the case.