A Canadian professor found dead in Colombia late last year may have been poisoned, the man’s family says.
Ramazan Gencay, 57, formerly a professor at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, B.C., went missing in Medellin on Dec. 6.
The economics professor was there for a conference, but did not return to his hotel the night he went missing. His body was located on Dec. 24.
Gencay’s family told CTV Vancouver that he may have been poisoned with a laced drink.
Local media in Colombia is reporting that three people have been arrested in connection with Gencay’s death.
Global Affairs Canada said it was in contact with local authorities who informed them of the arrests.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of a Canadian citizen who died in Colombia,” Global Affairs wrote in a statement.
“Consular services are being provided to the family in Canada. Due to the provisions under the Privacy Act, no further information can be disclosed.”
Gencay’s widow told CTV Vancouver that her family is aware of the arrests and is thankful to Colombian police.
"Ramo will be deeply missed by the SFU community, and our hearts go out to his family, friends and SFU faculty, students and staff who worked with him," university president Andrew Petter said in a statement to faculty and staff in December.
A celebration of life was held for Gencay in Vancouver on Jan. 18.
His family said on social media that he was an experienced traveller who enjoyed hiking and salsa dancing.