DUBAI: The Human Rights Watch is calling on Saudi Arabia to investigate the death of a Pakistani transgender woman who had been detained by police in Riyadh, following a raid on a private gathering.

The rights group says a f amily member claims the transgender womanwas tortured in custody.

The HRW said on Thursday the medical report states the body did not show `any signs of suspicious wounds`.

A police memo says the detainee complained of chest pains and was taken to a hospital.

Saudi news website Sabq publishedpictures of the February raid, showing men dressed in women`s clothing and makeup with their identities concealed.

Homosexuality and cross-dressing are not permitted in Saudi Arabia.

Sentences for this offence include imprisonment, fines and lashes.-AP