A man, allegedly shot by the police after trying to escape arrest, was found dead in the Meleko River in Batang Asai province, Sarolangun regency, Jambi, on Saturday.

The man, identified as Salahudin, 25, had been reportedly missing for days before being found in the river, according to his brother, Pudhil.

"We wanted [the police] to investigate the case, so that we could know what exactly caused my brother's death," Pudhil said on Sunday, adding that a bullet hole was found in the victim's back.

Sarolangun Police officer Comr. Agus Saleh said his team would investigate the case as instructed by Sarolangun Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Dadan Wira Laksana.

"If there was indeed police negligence in this case, we will take firm action," Agus said.

Witnesses said the victim and two of his friends visited an illegal gold mine near the river and extorted a businessman.

However, the businessman reportedly told them he had no money and asked if he could go home to get money. He later came back with police officers. Salahudin and his friends allegedly ran off and jumped into the river as the police shot at them. (wit)