Chennai, Dec 14 (UNI) An Inspector and two constables were placed under suspension in connection with the alleged custodial death of a tea shop owner at Vadapalani police station in the city, police said today.

They said Inspector Aathimoolam and constables Thiruvengadam and Subhash, attached to the Vadapalani station, were placed under suspension, two days ago.

The suspension followed protests from traders and some political parties, demanding action against the policemen involved in the custodial death of Syed Ali, a native of Kerala, and running a tea shop in the area.

Syed Ali, who was picked up for interrogation following complaints that he was selling lottery tickets which were banned in the State, suddenly swooned and was taken to a hospital, where he was declared brought dead.

His relatives allege that Syed had died due to police torture.

The Traders Federation, led by Mr T Vellaiyan, and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi General Secretary Thol Thirumavalavan staged a day-long protest yesterday, condemning the custodial death and demanding action against the erring policemen.

Police have registered a case under Sec 174 (unnatural death) and a RDO inquiry was ordered into the incident.

Chennai City Police Commissioner Nanchil Kumaran said impartial action would be taken into the alleged custodial death.

Meanwhile, Ali's post-mortem was conducted and his body was handed over to his relatives for performing last rites in Kerala.

UNI