The Singapore Police Force (SPF) said on Friday that no foul play is suspected in the death of noted Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, based on their preliminary investigation.
The police added that the full probe may take three months or more to conclude under Singapore’s Coroners Act 2010. Garg died in Singapore on September 19, ahead of a scheduled concert.
“Based on preliminary investigations, the SPF does not suspect foul play,” the official statement said.
Singapore Police Issue Statement Amid Speculation
The SPF’s statement addressed misinformation and speculation circulating online about the singer’s death.
“The SPF is aware of the speculation and false information circulating online regarding the circumstances of Mr Zubeen Garg’s death,” the statement read.
“The case is currently being investigated by the SPF in accordance with Singapore’s Coroners Act 2010.”
The preliminary findings and autopsy report were submitted to the High Commission of India in Singapore on October 1.
Coroner’s Inquiry Likely After Three Months
The SPF explained that the findings of the investigation will be submitted to the State Coroner after about three months.
“After about three months, the findings will be submitted to the State Coroner in Singapore, who will then determine whether to hold a Coroner’s Inquiry (CI),” the statement said.
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A Coroner’s Inquiry is a fact-finding process to establish the cause and circumstances of death. Its findings will be made public upon conclusion.
Assam SIT Continues Separate Investigation
Back in India, the Assam government constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the Crime Investigation Department (CID).
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the SIT is expected to submit its report by the end of November or early December.
Sarma also met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Singapore’s Acting High Commissioner Alice Cheng in New Delhi earlier this week. A team of Assam Police officers will travel to Singapore on October 21 to coordinate with SPF officials.
In the wake of Zubeen Garg’s death, seven people, including the late singer’s brother, were arrested on charges of murder.
Five of the accused were sent to judicial custody on Wednesday. The remaining two were remanded to 14-day custody by a Kamrup district court on Friday.
Earlier, a police convoy transporting the accused was attacked by around 150 Zubeen fans. The mob pelted stones, injuring several police personnel. Police resorted to lathi-charge and firing in the air, injuring two people.
“Two individuals were arrested on Thursday in connection with the incident, and several others have been identified,” Assam Police officials said.
SPF Urges Public Not to Spread Rumours
The Singapore Police have requested the public not to speculate about the case.
“The SPF is committed to conducting a thorough and professional investigation into the case, and this takes time. We seek the patience and understanding of the parties involved,” the statement said.
