Kerala Crime Branch begins detailed probe into bus driver’s death in Kollam

The Kollam District Crime Branch has launched a comprehensive investigation into the death of Siyad (39), a private bus driver who died after being questioned and released by the Kundara police.

Siyad, a resident of Perumpuzha, passed away on July 24, 2026 while undergoing treatment at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital. He had been taken into custody on June 16 following a complaint regarding missing of two 7th-grade children from his neighbourhood.

The incident gained widespread attention after an audio message by Siyad’s daughter surfaced, alleging that he was brutally assaulted by the police inside the police vehicle. Later, the Home department had sought an official report, prompting the transfer of the case to the District Crime Branch. A departmental inquiry has also been announced against a sub-inspector and civil police officer accused of beating Siyad inside the police jeep.