An Aboriginal prisoner who died in Western Australia had suffered health problems, the state government says, while urging people who plan to attend another Black Lives Matter protest in Perth to abide by COVID-19 rules.
The 40-year-old Acacia Prison inmate was found collapsed on Friday but could not be revived and was pronounced dead in hospital.
“The initial advice we have is there were some health issues associated with this poor man,” Premier Mark McGowan told reporters on Sunday.
Police said his death did not appear to be suspicious, but they are investigating and an inquest will be held given it is a death in custody. The Department of Justice will also conduct an internal review.
WA Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt said he was concerned indigenous people, who are considered more vulnerable to the virus, might travel from the regions to the city to attend the protest and potentially become exposed.
“Nobody is disputing the topic of the protest but… that worries me greatly,” Mr Wyatt said.
“I don’t want to see a large gathering of people.
“There is still a pandemic that has not yet been defeated.”
Mr McGowan said he understood the passion of the worldwide movement, but organisers “shouldn’t try to flout the law to make a point”.
“I’m requesting that people do the right thing.”
