The recent suicidal death of a Guyanese national, Indera Joseph, at the Immigration Detention Centre (IDC), Cumuto, may not have arrested and attracted adequate public attention to inquire and investigate T&T's detention practices and determine whether or not this country is violating international human rights standards.This unfortunate loss of life has brought into collision the controversial issues of migration, security and human rights. One can be assured, however, that the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UN) will be paying particular attention to this matter.
While the officers attached at the IDC are not responsible for Ms Joseph's death, there must have been areas of concern which should have been monitored. Questions must be asked. What were the circumstances leading to her committing suicide? Was Ms Joseph in the country before? Was she removed? Did she re-enter with a false document? Which provisions of the Immigration Act did she violate? Was she a victim of sexual violence at the IDC? Who really cares?