An investigation has been launched after a prisoner was this morning found dead at the Westgate Correctional facility.

The 37-year-old man was serving a four-month sentence for assaulting a Police officer.

The cause of the man’s death has not yet been disclosed and officials have not released his name.

This afternoon a Police spokesman said: "Around 10am today, Police received a report of the sudden death of an inmate at the Westgate Correctional Facility.

"Details about what occurred are unclear; however the inmate, a 37-year-old man, was subsequently pronounced dead by an on call physician. Inquiries into this incident are underway. No further information will be released until the next of kin has been notified."

And a statement from the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs, said: "The Ministry advises that an investigation will be conducted into the circumstances surrounding the death and that the Department of Corrections intends to cooperate fully with the Bermuda Police Service to ensure a swift resolution.

"The Ministry extends its condolences to the family of the deceased and advised that pending the outcome of the investigation no further comment will be made at this time."

* For the full story see The Royal Gazette tomorrow.