Inmate dies of unknown causes at Coloane Prison

A 57-year-old inmate from mainland China died in the early morning of June 15 in Macau’s Public Hospital (CHCSJ) after being transported there by the Coloane Prison services, the Correctional Service Bureau (DSC) announced in a statement.
According to the statement, the detainee showed signs of breathing difficulties and spasmodic contractions when he was discovered by prison guards during their overnight rounds. He received assistance on site from the prison’s medical staff, at which point he was immediately transported to the CHCSJ for further assistance.
After unsuccessful treatment in the hospital, the detainee was pronounced dead a little before 2.00 a.m. on June 15.  The DSC stated that the cause of his death was still being investigated by the hospital.
The recluse had been detained in Coloane Prison since April 2014 after being sentenced to six years and eight months’ imprisonment for crimes related to drug trafficking and use.
The statement also noted that the inmate had a medical history of allergic rhinitis, which he had suffered for over 10 years, and a record of methamphetamine (ice) abuse that required periodical treatment.
The DSC also stated that he had recently been treated at the prison’s medical center for asthma-related symptoms.
The family of the deceased was promptly informed. The DSC has opened an internal investigation into the case and will reveal the cause of death upon confirmation from the CHCSJ. RM