MURDER accused Yohan Cruickshank came to court last week with the complaint that he had not been allowed meals by police officers at specific times during his fast for the month of Ramadan.

The celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr took place on Sunday, while the public holiday was celebrated yesterday.

Cruickshank, 30, of Cunupia, who is also a State witness in a murder case, claimed he was beaten by police officers.

Cruickshank made the allegations in the San Fernando First Magistrate's Court, when brought to face the charge that he had murdered Kenny Noriega.

Noriega, 25, of Cunupia, was shot dead near his home at Kernahan Extension, Chin Chin Road, Cunupia, on July 31.

Noriega, who did odd jobs in the area, was found by a passer-by in bushes at the side of the road.

In court, attorney Lisa Singh of the Legal Aid Authority spoke on Cruickshank's behalf.

She said when she visited Cruickshank at the police station on August 11, "I was informed by the accused that he was fasting for Ramadan and made same known to (police officers) and requested that he be fed before fasting begins in the morning and to accommodate his breaking of fast in the afternoon period."

Singh said when she returned to the station around 5 p.m. the following day, Cruickshank told her he still went without food following her visit.

Singh said she was informed that this happened for three days.

Singh also told acting Deputy Chief Magistrate Rajendra Rambachan of the complaint from Cruickshank, that he was beaten by officers of the North Eastern Division.

Singh said she requested he be taken to the San Fernando General Hospital.

Police prosecutor Ramdath Phillip said he was told by Sgt Hollis Halls, who laid the murder charge, that Cruickshank was taken for medical attention and a medical report had been received.

Before the hearing was adjourned, Singh said the accused was a State witness in a capital matter and was concerned for his safety while in custody.

Rambachan made note of this and all the other issues raised during Cruickshank's court appearance.

The matter was transferred to the Chaguanas Magistrates' Court for today.

Cruickshank has made a formal application for a legal aid attorney.