The devastated family of an inmate, 54, who was killed inside his cell while on remand for his first alleged offence has demanded answers.
Alfredo Pengue was inside his unlocked cell at Silverwater Prison, west of Sydney, when he was set upon shortly after 2pm on Friday.
Mr Pengue was found unconscious in his cell, where he had been on remand since January 1, on a grievous bodily harm charge.
He was taken to Westmead Hospital, but could not be revived.
The prisoner died after being assaulted by another inmate inside his unlocked Silverwater Prison (pictured) cell
Mr Pengue’s devastated family has now demanded to know how he died under the prison’s watch, The Daily Telegraph reported.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Diane Elston called on the New South Wales government to explain.
‘On behalf of my client’s family I can say they are devastated by the loss of their son and brother,’ Ms Elston said.
‘His family await answers as to how his death occurred and why better security measures were not in place at the Silverwater MRRC.
‘The family ask for their privacy to be respected during this terribly sad time.’
The 54-year-old was inside his unlocked cell on Friday when he was set on shortly after 2pm
Mr Pengue, who faced criminal charges for the first time, reportedly occupied a cell that opened onto a common yard.
New South Wales Police said Mr Pengue was attacked by another inmate at the prison, but are yet to lay any charges.
Mr Pengue appeared at Central Local Court on January 9, where he was referred for mental health treatment.
He was held on remand at the prison for allegedly causing grievous bodily harm with intent and being armed with intent to commit an indictable offence.
He reportedly had no connection with the criminal underworld and was serving time for his first offence.
Mr Pengue was expected to apply for bail when he faced the NSW Supreme Court on February 26.
An investigation into the incident and his cause of death has been launched by Corrective Services NSW and NSW Police.
A report into his death will be prepared for the coroner.