Letter to the editor: Parents of suicide victims want justice |
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| Friday, 24 July 2009 17:09 |
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I write in response to an article printed on 15 July 2009 titled ‘Parents of ‘suicide’ victims want justice.’ The article states that international student Maninder Singh died in May 2008 after being struck by a train near Melbourne’s Kensington train station. Journalist Amanda Hodge reports that it took police almost four months to notify Maninder Singh’s family in India of their son’s death. Whilst I appreciate that the delay has caused the family additional distress, I would like to highlight that in this instance Victoria Police took every necessary step to ensure that the Singh family were advised of their son’s death. As soon as the Coroner was able to formally identify Mr Singh, Victoria Police made contact with State Intelligence Services who in turn advised Interpol of the death on 17 June 2008. It was not until 18 September 2008 that Mr Singh's father was contacted by local police in India and advised of his son’s death. I would like to reassure the community that Victoria Police has clear protocols in place to alert overseas agencies to deaths of international visitors so they can inform the next of kin. Unfortunately in this incident, the delay of three months occurred in India and was outside the control of Victoria Police. The article also raises concerns about attacks on international students. I would like to reassure the Indian community that Victoria Police will continue to address the issue of assaults and robberies on students through enforcement and prevention and work with the community to find an effective and sustainable solution. Superintendent Chris O'Neill Transit Safety Division Letter to the Editor - Victoria Police - response to article dated 15/07/09 'Parents of Suicide Victims Want Justice'. Share This Page  
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