Introduction

An inquest has concluded that strict terrorism control measures played a significant role in the death of a London man held on remand. The jury found that the measures, known as TPIMs, had a substantial impact on the prisoner's mental state before he died in custody on Christmas Day 2021.

What Happened

The deceased, Akhtar Uddin, was 35 years old and from east London. He was imprisoned in 2020 after breaching a Terrorism Prevention and Investigation Measure. Prior to that, he had convictions for racially or religiously aggravated harassment, but none related to terrorism. While subject to the TPIM, Uddin breached the conditions 12 times, primarily by withdrawing more money than permitted, which the inquest heard he used to fund drug use. On Christmas Day 2021, he was found dead in his cell at HMP Wandsworth. The jury recorded a conclusion of suicide but noted it could not determine whether he intended to die.

Why This Matters

The inquest revealed that prison staff had little awareness of the TPIM conditions applied to Uddin, resulting in treatment the governor described as unintentionally cruel. Uddin's sister said he feared he would never be freed from the measure, and that the prospect of its re-imposition weighed heavily on him. A family statement said the findings should help others currently living under the regime. An expert psychiatrist testified that Uddin had an undiagnosed personality disorder and that the isolation inherent in TPIMs can exacerbate psychological vulnerability.

Key Takeaways

  • The inquest jury stated the original TPIM and its unusually restrictive nature had a substantial impact on Uddin's mental state.
  • The fear of re-imposition of such measures had a significant impact on his psychological wellbeing.
  • Prison services were unaware of the TPIM restrictions, creating a gap in support tailored to his needs.
  • The coroner will issue a preventing future deaths report, citing a paucity of support for people subject to TPIMs.
  • Campaigners and the government acknowledge that many TPIM subjects face mental health challenges and neurodivergence.

Conclusion

The case highlights the urgent need for prison staff to understand terrorism control measures and their human impact. As the government reviews training and policy, the inquest's findings may drive reform for those living under TPIMs, ensuring that security measures do not come at the cost of mental health and life.