A Refugee Has Died On Manus Island

A refugee has been found dead on Manus Island, according to locals and refugee advocates. Local police have suggested the man committed suicide, but the immediate cause of death has not been confirmed.

Local police chief David Yapu said the man had likely committed suicide, citing a history of mental illness, according to Fairfax.

Refugee advocates in contact with people on Manus Island told Junkee the man had signs of injuries on his body.

Iranian journalist Behrouz Boochani, who is detained on Manus Island, placed the blame for the man’s death on the Australian government’s shoulders.

A refugee passed away in #Manus island. He was very sick for long time but Australia did not provide medical treatment for him.

— Behrouz Boochani (@BehrouzBoochani) August 7, 2017

Boochani tweeted on Monday that the man’s body was discovered by his fellow refugees.

Refugee advocate Pamela Curr told Junkee she got to know the man well when he was flown to Melbourne for medical treatment. She said he had become a “sad young man” with serious mental health issues and she had advocated strongly for him to be allowed to stay in Australia, to no avail.

Greens refugee spokesperson Nick Mckim said the man’s death was an “abhorrent failure” by Immigration Minister Peter Dutton and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

“This man repeatedly sought Australia’s help. The Liberals ignored his pleas and now must bear responsibility for what happened.”

The Department of Immigration and Border Protection has been contacted for comment.

If you need support, both Lifeline on 13 11 14 and the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 offer 24-hour assistance. For further information about youth mental health, both headspace and Reach Out can provide  guidance. You can also talk to a medical professional or someone you trust.