An inmate has died after swallowing drugs during a routine check at Antwerp prison, authorities confirmed.
The man, who was serving time under a restricted detention program allowing daytime work outside the facility, returned from his job on Thursday evening when staff became suspicious he was carrying contraband.
During the search, he refused to hand over the substances and instead ingested them, according to a spokesperson for the prison service.
Medical personnel were immediately called in, and the inmate was placed under constant supervision, but his condition deteriorated rapidly.
He was later taken to a hospital, where he died.
The incident occurred at the prison on Begijnenstraat in Antwerp, and both the public prosecutor’s office and prison authorities have confirmed the death, stating the cause is under investigation.
Psychological support has been made available for staff affected by the event.
