Pacific / Nauru

Nauru arrests suicidal refugee - report

09:29 am on 9 October 2018

Refugee advocates say police in Nauru have arrested a 36-year-old Iranian refugee for attempting suicide.

Refugees held in Nauru Photo: supplied

The Refugee Action Coaltion said the refugee swallowed washing powder at the Anibare camp on Monday afternoon.

The Coalition's Ian Rintoul said although the man was in obvious distress, police arrested him rather than calling an ambulance.

It follows a government edict made last week that any refugee who threatens or attempts suicide be arrested.

Mr Rintoul said it was not known if the police sought medical assistance for the refugee.

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