After escape from hospital

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The Ministry of Justice of Alma Zadic (Greens) rejects the FPÖ's criticism in no uncertain terms.

(Bild: APA/HELMUT FOHRINGER)

After a 19-year-old, who was in custody on suspicion of terrorism, escaped from hospital, the FPÖ criticized Justice Minister Alma Zadic (Greens). In a statement to the "Krone" newspaper, the ministry has now pointed out that this was, however, "human error" on the part of a single official.

"According to the current state of affairs, yesterday's escape is due to human error on the part of a prison guard. The officer concerned did not apply the restraint clearly prescribed in the current decree. A corresponding disciplinary investigation is underway," said a statement from Alma Zadic's ministry on Saturday.

FPÖ accused Zadic of "cuddly justice"
The FPÖ had previously accused Zadic of "not having the prisons under control" after a 19-year-old terror suspect escaped during a hospital visit in Vienna and spoke of "cuddly justice". The fugitive was arrested again a day later and returned to prison.

A prison guard is said to have made a serious mistake that allowed the 19-year-old terror suspect to escape.

(Bild: P. Huber)

"Very possible to shackle prisoners"
According to the FPÖ, certain revoked security orders were also to blame for the terror suspect's escape. Since November 2023, it is no longer mandatory to shackle the prisoner's hands behind their back during transportation. Did this facilitate the escape of the terror suspect?

The FPÖ's criticism relates to this change to the order.

(Bild: zVg, Krone KREATIV)

The Ministry of Justice disagrees: "It is of course possible and also necessary to shackle the arms behind the body of prisoners during medical escorts if this is indicated in accordance with the applicable regulations."

In any case, the officer concerned is terribly sorry about the whole incident, as krone.at learned. He may now face disciplinary proceedings, a corresponding investigation is already underway.