Questions on Hamed’s treatment

Lauren Williams (“Dead refugee asked to go home”, September 2-8) sheds more light on the tragic, avoidable death of Hamed Shamshiripour. Williams exposes gross dereliction of duty by the minister and officials responsible for the safe custody of prisoners held on Manus Island. It is reasonable to ask why, given Hamed’s mental state, his request to be returned to Iran was not accepted; why, given evidence of his beatings, he was not removed for his own protection and given suitable medical help; and just why Hamed’s body has not been returned to his family. Yes, minister, I am ashamed Hamed’s death was done in my name and in the knowledge of your officials.

– John H. Bennett, Dingabledinga, SA