• Source:JND
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A 42-year-old Indian-origin man, Gaurav Kundi, has passed away almost two weeks after a controversial police restraint in Adelaide's eastern suburbs, during which police reportedly used excessive force in effecting an arrest. Kundi was hospitalised with serious brain and neck injuries after the May 29 incident and passed away on June 12. South Australia Police have launched an internal investigation into the matter. However, Police Commissioner Grant Stevens has so far defended the conduct of the officers involved, stating that bodycam footage “does not support” claims of a knee being placed on Kundi’s neck.

What Happened In Adelaide?

Kundi, a father of two residing in Modbury North, was reportedly involved in a verbal argument with his wife, Amritpal Kaur, on the day of the arrest. The couple was having a heated conversation in public, which escalated to a police response on suspicion of domestic violence. Kaur said that Kundi was drunk at that time but was not violent. As officers attempted to restrain him, Kundi was held to the ground. His wife accused one of the police officers of kneeing him in the neck, an act that is reminiscent of the 2020 fatal arrest of George Floyd in US. She further accused his head of being slammed onto a police car and the ground, upon which he became unconscious. Kundi was taken to the Royal Adelaide Hospital and put on life support. The doctors subsequently confirmed massive brain damage and cervical nerve injuries. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries on June 12 despite intensive care.

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Official Response And Investigation

Acting Assistant Commissioner John DeCandia said initial body-worn camera footage suggests the officers acted in line with their training. “From the evidence I’ve seen, I’m comfortable that at least one officer acted appropriately. But the full investigation is still underway,” he said. South Australia Premier Peter Malinauskas also came out in support of the police, declaring officers are left with mere seconds to make a decision when situations are dangerous.

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The case has ignited public anger, with human rights groups and community organisations asking for an open and independent investigation. The South Asian Human Rights Council has called for the immediate release of the bodycam video and taking action to be taken against those responsible."This matter cannot be swept under the carpet. We are demanding justice for Gaurav Kundi and an open investigation," a representative of the council stated. No criminal charges have been submitted against any of the officers yet. Police said that the results of the internal probe will decide whether disciplinary or legal action should be taken.