The Royal Bhutan Police have acknowledged procedural lapses in the custodial death of Biren Kafley but maintain there was no foul play. An internal inquiry by the Human Resource Committee, a sub-committee of the Police Service Board, is reviewing the case and is expected to finalize disciplinary recommendations by Monday.
Officials stated that evidence, including CCTV footage, shows Biren was physically fine when leaving detention and entering the police vehicle, contradicting claims of assault. Dashcam recordings confirmed the van’s travel time was consistent with normal speed, while forensic analysis indicated the fatal head injuries were likely caused by a fall from a height or a moving vehicle, not physical assault. The jail van sustained damage from the deceased’s attempts to escape.
Biren had been arrested after being identified as a drug supplier by earlier detainees. Subsequent arrests led to the capture of his supplier and a truck driver, with drugs recovered. Four initial arrestees were sent for substance use treatment, while traffickers face legal charges. Police emphasized this was the only custodial death among over 10,000 drug-related arrests between 2023 and 2025. The inquiry aims to ensure accountability for procedural lapses and clarify misunderstandings surrounding the case.