The Special Penitentiary Service has issued a statement regarding the death of a prisoner at the Vivamed Clinic, expressing condolences to the family and condemning what they describe as manipulation of the incident by certain media outlets for political purposes.

"The accused I.G. was placed in Penitentiary Facility No. 8 per legal requirements. From the day of his admission, the defendant was under medical supervision and underwent initial medical examinations and appropriate tests upon arrival.

We unequivocally note that neither the accused I.G. nor his legal representative filed any complaints of rights violations against the Penitentiary Service or the administration of the penitentiary facility No. 8 throughout his entire period of detention.

On January 23, 2025, the health condition of the accused I.G. deteriorated. The facility administration immediately called an emergency medical team, which transferred the defendant to a civilian multidisciplinary medical facility. Despite being under constant medical supervision in the critical care department, I.G. passed away on May 4, 2025.

The Ministry of Justice [MoJ] and the Special Penitentiary Service maintained active communication with the defendant’s family and the Public Defender`s Office. The MoJ`s relevant department immediately launched an investigation into the incident, with intensive investigative actions ongoing. The investigation reportedly does not confirm any facts of fighting or violence.

The Special Investigation Service is also involved in the investigation. The public will be informed of the results after the investigation is completed. The MoJ has expressed readiness to provide any legally defined information to the family members of the accused, his legal defenders, taking into account the interest of conducting the investigation effectively and thoroughly", - reads the statement.