Death of detainee near Heathrow prompts immigration detention crisis fears

Frank Ospina’s death followed by reports of suicide attempts by other detainees at Colnbrook removal centre

Lawyers and charities have predicted an unfolding crisis in immigration detention following the death of a detainee and reports of subsequent suicide attempts by others.

The Home Office confirmed that investigations have been launched by police and the prisons and probation ombudsman into the death of Frank Ospina on 26 March. He was being held at Colnbrook immigration removal centre near Heathrow next to the adjoining Harmondsworth immigration detention centre. He is believed to have been 39 and from Colombia. Detainees said he took his own life although this has not been confirmed.