Nigerian dies in custody at Maafushi prison
The deceased, identified as Emmanuel John Paul Okonachi, was 35 years old at the time of his death.
A Nigerian man awaiting trial at Maafushi Prison passed away on Wednesday under unclear circumstances.
The deceased, identified as Emmanuel John Paul Okonachi, was 35 years old at the time of his death. According to Maldives Correctional Service, Okonachi collapsed while playing in the prison yard Wednesday evening.
Authorities reported that:
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He was immediately taken to the Maafushi Prison Medical Centre for emergency treatment.
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Four minutes later, he was transferred to Maafushi Hospital.
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He was pronounced dead at 5:20 PM.
Okonachi had been in custody pending trial on charges of possession, use, and trafficking of drugs. Corrections officials stated that he was not receiving treatment for any chronic illness at the time of his death.
The case has been reported to the Inspector of Correctional Service, the Maldives Police Service, the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM), the National Integrity Commission (NIC), and the Prosecutor General's Office.
