A disturbing incident has come to light at the Eastern High Security Prison in Melrose, Mauritius, where a 78-year-old inmate has accused two fellow prisoners of sexually assaulting him. The elderly prisoner, who is serving a 35-year sentence for murder, made the allegations after being hospitalized within the prison. According to reports, the incident occurred on the night of September 24-25, while the septuagenarian was sharing a hospital room with two other inmates aged 40 and 58.

The alleged assault took place in the Ward 2 of the prison hospital, where the elderly inmate claims his cellmates made suggestive comments towards him around 1:30 am. Feeling threatened, the 78-year-old prisoner stayed awake until 6 am, but later discovered a suspicious liquid, believed to be semen, and wiped it away with a towel. He immediately informed a nurse on duty, handed over his clothing from that night, and underwent a medical examination, complaining of anal pain.

An investigation has been launched into the allegations, with the two accused inmates set to be questioned by investigators. The incident has raised concerns about prison conditions and the safety of vulnerable inmates. The elderly prisoner had been sharing the hospital room with his alleged assailants, who are significantly younger.

The incident has sparked widespread concern about the state of prison facilities and the protection of inmates, particularly those who are elderly and vulnerable. Authorities have promised a thorough investigation into the allegations, with a focus on ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.

The prison authorities have not commented on the incident, but sources close to the investigation have confirmed that a thorough probe is underway. The alleged assault has highlighted the need for greater vigilance and protection of inmates within the prison system.

The incident has also raised questions about the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates, particularly those who have served long sentences. The 78-year-old prisoner has been incarcerated for over three decades and is now facing the trauma of a sexual assault.

The case is ongoing, with investigators working to gather evidence and testimony from witnesses. The outcome of the investigation is expected to have significant implications for the prison authorities and the broader justice system in Mauritius.

Key points

  • A 78-year-old inmate at Melrose's Eastern High Security Prison alleges he was sexually assaulted by two cellmates while hospitalized within the prison.
  • An investigation has been launched into the allegations, with the two accused inmates set to be questioned by investigators.
  • The incident has raised concerns about prison conditions and the safety of vulnerable inmates.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.