Inmate dies at Basra Central Prison due to heart failure

BASRA — A 48-year-old inmate at Basra Central Prison died Friday after suffering from heart failure, according to a security source.

The source told 964media that the deceased had been serving a 15-year sentence for drug trafficking under Article 14 of the Iraqi Penal Code.

“The inmate, a resident of the Ashar (Bariha) area, died of heart failure, according to the initial medical report,” the source said.

Authorities transferred the body to the Forensic Medicine Department to complete legal procedures, including an examination by forensic experts.

Last year, another inmate in his forties passed away in Basra Central Prison. He was sentenced under Article 4 of the Anti-Terrorism Law. The inmate, originally from Anbar and born in 1980, was serving a 15-year sentence.

Many testimonies highlight widespread poor health, rapid disease transmission, and medical neglect in Iraqi prisons. The basic lack of hygiene makes these facilities a breeding ground for diseases. The crisis is further aggravated by inadequate ventilation and the absence of sanitizers. Additionally, overcrowding in Iraqi prisons is intensifying due to an increase in detentions and judicial delays.