In a Shocking Display of Self-Harm, Inmate Sews His Eyelids Shut; Ministry of Justice Explains

The Ministry of Justice has provided clarifications regarding an incident of self-harm by an inmate in the "Nubarashen" Penitentiary yesterday.

The statement mentions: "Following a study conducted by the correctional service of the Ministry of Justice concerning the self-harm incident of inmate Hayk Galstyan at the 'Nubarashen' penitentiary that was reported by several mass media outlets, it was established that Galstyan, previously convicted 11 times for fraud and other crimes, is currently facing charges in 7 criminal cases, including false accusations, escape, and other offenses.

On July 22, 2020, he was transferred to the 'Scientific Research Institute of Cardiology' for medical examination under the escort of penitentiary staff. The examination revealed health-related issues, however, there was no necessity for immediate intervention, which led to his return to the 'Nubarashen' penitentiary to organize further medical assistance according to established procedures.

Purportedly justifying his hospitalization not taking place due to pressure exerted by the medical staff of the correctional service, Galstyan sewed his eyelids shut in an act motivated by blackmail and demonstrative intent. He simultaneously contacted a media outlet and the head of the penitentiary, accusing them and other correctional service employees of alleged abuses.

On the same day, under the instruction of the Minister of Justice, a personal meeting with the inmate was organized, led by the Deputy Head of the Penitentiary Service, Justice Major General A. Harutyunyan. During this meeting, comprehensive explanations regarding medical assistance procedures were provided to him, and he was offered the opportunity to present any factual information he had regarding the abuses by officials.

Hayk Galstyan provided detailed explanations regarding both his self-harm and the motivations for his allegations against the correctional service personnel, claiming that he did not have any factual data regarding the alleged crimes and that his statements were solely a result of the delays in the organization of the medical assistance process. On the same day, Hayk Galstyan personally removed the stitches from his eyelids.