Zubeen Garg death: Assam Police officer, his cousin, arrested
The investigation into singer Zubeen Garg’s death in Singapore took a major turn on Tuesday. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Assam Police arrested Zubeen’s cousin, Sandipan Garg, an Assam Police Service (APS) officer.
Officials said Sandipan was present with the singer when the incident occurred. His role in the sequence of events leading to Zubeen’s death raised serious questions for the investigators.
Special DGP (CID) and SIT chief Munna Prasad Gupta confirmed the arrest. “The SIT/CID of Assam Police have arrested APS officer Sandipan Garg in connection with the Zubeen Garg death case,” Gupta told ANI.
The arrest deepened the mystery around the popular singer’s sudden death. The SIT earlier arrested four others linked to the Northeast India Festival in Singapore, where Zubeen performed before his death. The list includes festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, Zubeen’s manager Siddharth Sharma, his bandmate Shekhar Jyoti Goswami, and co-singer Amritprava Mahanta. With Sandipan’s arrest, the total number of people in custody has now reached five.
Investigators said the team questioned several witnesses in Singapore and Assam before making this move. They also reviewed call records, travel schedules, and security footage from the event venue. Officials believe Sandipan’s presence during Zubeen’s final hours could hold critical clues.
Zubeen Garg, one of Assam’s most beloved singers, died suddenly during a music tour in Singapore last month. He had travelled there with his team for the Northeast India Festival, which promotes regional art and culture. After his performance, he reportedly fell unconscious at his hotel. Doctors declared him dead soon after. The cause of death remains under examination by both Singaporean authorities and the SIT in India.
Following the incident, the Assam government formed a Special Investigation Team to ensure a transparent and thorough probe. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma directed the CID to coordinate with Singapore police and the Indian High Commission. The SIT began gathering information from Zubeen’s close associates, event organisers, and family members.
Over the past few weeks, the team uncovered inconsistencies in statements given by those accompanying the singer. Investigators believe these contradictions could explain what led to his collapse. Sources said Sandipan’s account differed sharply from others, prompting his arrest for deeper questioning.
Meanwhile, fans across Assam expressed shock as news of the arrest spread. Many urged the government to ensure justice and maintain transparency in the case. Several musicians and public figures called for patience until the investigation reaches its conclusion.
The SIT continues to trace financial transactions, travel logs, and communication details among the accused. Officers said the team aims to present a clear timeline of Zubeen’s final day in Singapore.
As investigations move forward, the case has drawn nationwide attention. Zubeen’s death left a deep void in India’s music scene, and his fans continue to seek answers. For now, the SIT’s focus remains on uncovering what truly happened to Assam’s most iconic voice.
