No police officers have been suspended over the death of Richmond Tong in his cell at the Floriana depot over a year ago.

Questioned by Lovin Malta as to whether any officers have been suspended over the incident, a police spokesperson confirmed that it’s still awaiting the conclusions of two inquiries, one by a magistrate and another by the Independent Police Complaints Board.

They said necessary action will be taken following the conclusion of these two inquiries.

Tong, 35, was found dead in his cell in June 2020, shortly after he had been arrested over suspected drug possession. Police said back then he had suffered a seizure and was given first aid but to no avail.

Frustrated at the lack of answers, his mother Monica Tong, brother Ian Tong and sister Maryjo Tong have resorted to legal action.

Through their lawyers Franco Debono, Marion Camilleri and Francesca Zarb, they have requested compensation from the Home Affairs Minister, police commissioner, Attorney General and State Advocate, warning that Richmond Tong died as a result of their carelessness and failure to give him the required medical assistance.

They have also filed a constitutional case to claim that their human rights are being breached by being denied information from the inquiry.

Do you think the authorities should be more transparent about this case?