Asylum seeker Hamid Kehazaei dies in Brisbane hospital

Immigration Minister Scott Morrison said he would review
how Hamid Kehazaei died. Photo: Joe Armao 

Asylum seeker Hamid Kehazaei, who developed a severe infection on Manus Island after he cut his foot, has died in a Brisbane hospital, Immigration Minister Scott Morrison has confirmed.

The 24-year-old, who was declared brain dead last week, was pronounced dead on Friday evening, Mr Morrison said in a statement.

His family made the decision to turn off his life support. His organs will also be donated in Australia.

The minister said he would initiate a review into the death of the 24-year-old. He would also request a medical review from the health service provider on Manus Island, International Health Medical Service.

“I can advise that the department’s Chief Medical Officer is conducting an in-depth clinical review on the background to the transferee’s medical condition and care while at Manus OPC,” he said.

“I am very saddened by this man’s passing and on behalf of the Australian government I extend our deepest sympathy to the man’s family and friends.”

Mr Kehazaei is the second asylum seeker detained at Manus Island to die.  In February, another man, Reza Barati, was killed during violent clashes which injured another 69 people.

Mr Kehazaei was evacuated to the mainland last week after his condition reportedly deteriorated when a cut on his foot became infected, leading to severe septicaemia.

Mr Morrison said the man had been transferred to Australia from Port Moresby on Wednesday.

Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young has made claims there was a delay in treating the man for the cut to his foot, which resulted in his health severely deteriorating while he was on Manus Island.

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