Hamas commander 'drugged and suffocated'

Forensic tests show a Hamas commander was drugged and then suffocated in his hotel room, Dubai police said today.

Police officials said tests showed a substantial amount of a fast-acting muscle relaxant called succinylcholine was found in Mahmoud al-Mabhouh’s bloodstream.

The analysis was part of tests conducted after al-Mabhouh was killed on January 19.

Dubai authorities have blamed a hit squad organised by Israel’s Mossad secret service.

The drug is sometimes used to administer a breathing tube or anaesthesia.

Dubai police also said a third Palestinian suspect is in custody.

At least 26 other suspects are wanted after being accused of travelling on fake European and Australian passports.