A foreign detainee was found dead on Wednesday afternoon inside holding cells at the Athens Police Headquarters, prompting an investigation into whether authorities properly handled his medical condition.

According to the Hellenic Police, the man was discovered unconscious at around 5:00 p.m. on April 29. Emergency responders confirmed his death shortly after arriving at the scene.

Medical episode hours before death

Authorities said the incident began earlier in the day, at approximately 11:50 a.m., when the detainee experienced a severe convulsive episode inside the detention facility on Alexandras Avenue.

Police officers immediately called for medical assistance. An ambulance arrived at 12:20 p.m., and paramedics examined the man but did not recommend transferring him to hospital at that time.

Medical staff reportedly attributed his symptoms to withdrawal syndrome. Plans were made to arrange a psychiatric evaluation within the facility.

Despite the initial assessment, the detainee’s condition worsened in the following hours. He was later found unresponsive in his cell, triggering a second emergency call. Rescuers who returned to the scene were unable to revive him.

Investigation and autopsy pending

A forensic examiner conducted an initial inspection at the site, while the competent prosecutor was notified. Authorities said an autopsy will be carried out to determine the exact cause of death.

The detainee had been held since April 25 in connection with a drug-related case.

The Hellenic Police has launched an internal investigation focusing on whether all required protocols were followed from the onset of the detainee’s symptoms until his death. The case has raised concerns over the management of medical incidents within police custody.