An accused, detained under the Goondas Act and lodged in the Salem jail, was found today hanging from the ceiling fan in his cell.

According to police, 23-year-old Ajithkumar, hailing from Komarapalayam in Namakkal district, was held for robbery on October 24 and lodged in the Salem jail. Since he was involved in various other offences, the district administration had ordered his detainment under the Goondas Act a couple of days ago, police said.

Ajithkumar was lodged in a cell in the 8th block along with three other accused. His cell mates had gone to watch the Saturday film screening in the auditorium and on their return found Ajithkumar hanging dead from the fan using his ‘lungi’.

On being informed, senior officials arrived at the spot and took down the body. Further investigations are on.