What led to the demise of 15-year-old Nelson?

In a tragic turn of events, 15-year-old Nelson Dil de Sousa Bulica passed away on August 1st in Ottweiler Prison. The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation by the State Prosecutor's Office.

According to fellow inmates, Nelson allegedly suffered bodily injuries and insults by prison officers. These claims have been corroborated by Nelson's father. However, the case of Ferhat Mayouf's cell fire remains unsolved, and the cause of Nelson's death is currently being assumed as suicide by the prosecution.

The family was left in shock when Nelson's body was cremated without their knowledge, raising questions and concerns. Saarbrücken's Chief Prosecutor Thomas Schardt stated that the family is responsible for the cremation.

The ongoing investigations require additional information to clarify the circumstances surrounding Nelson's death, including the examination of his voluntary self-endangerment. An independent expert opinion was not conducted on Nelson's body.

Activists and groups have criticized the silence of many media outlets and have organized a demonstration in memory of Nelson in Ottweiler on August 17th. They claim a pattern of institutional violence against black people in detention and accuse prison officials of abusing Nelson shortly before his death.

The lawyer representing Nelson's family, Luyeye-Mbuka, insists on the necessity of investigating the racial aspect in Nelson's case. She argues that a thorough investigation is necessary to clarify Nelson's self-responsibility in case of actual suicide.

The investigations against two prison officials from Ottweiler Prison due to allegations of bodily harm, including towards Nelson, are ongoing. It is important to note that there are currently no studies examining the reporting behavior of prison officers in Germany.

A study suggests that the spirit of camaraderie in these institutions is still strong, hindering police officers from exposing and intervening in misconduct within their ranks. The case of Oury Jalloh, another young man who died in police custody, is cited as a cautionary example of incomplete investigation.

Approximately 200 people attended Nelson's funeral, expressing their sympathy. The investigation into Nelson's death serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in our justice system.