The controversy began when a video circulated online, alleging that an inmate, identified as R.CH, had self-inflicted wounds on his neck and chest and attempted suicide by swallowing batteries, purportedly after being assaulted by a prison staff member. The prison management responded swiftly, issuing a statement to clarify the situation.

According to the official statement, the inmate in question deliberately harmed himself on August 24, 2024, using a blunt object he had fashioned. The self-inflicted injuries occurred on his arm, chest, and neck. Prison officials stated that the inmate was immediately transferred to the prison infirmary, where he received first aid. A report was filed on the incident, and the inmate was subsequently questioned about his actions, which he attributed to personal reasons.

The prison administration also addressed the inmate’s claim that he swallowed batteries. After a medical examination, it was confirmed that the inmate had indeed ingested radio batteries. This required an urgent transfer to the Ibn Rochd Hospital Center, where he received the necessary treatment.

In response to claims made by the inmate’s sister, who alleged that her brother had been assaulted by a prison official during a family visit, the prison management asserted that these allegations were false. Surveillance footage from the visitation area was reviewed, and no evidence was found to support the claim.

Further dispelling the notion that the inmate's self-harm was provoked by a staff assault, the prison authorities pointed out that other inmates housed in the same room at the multidisciplinary health center reported that R.CH had spoken of his intention to harm himself in order to be transferred to a hospital.

The prison management also provided details on the inmate’s current medical care. Upon his admission to the prison, R.CH was found to have a fractured left leg, the result of a public road accident. He underwent surgery and has since been placed in the prison’s multidisciplinary health center. The inmate is receiving ongoing treatment at the Ibn Rochd Hospital Center, following a schedule set by an orthopedic surgeon.