Newsroom
An official investigation is in progress into the death of nine-year-old Olivia, a young girl from Africa who passed away earlier this week in the pediatric emergency department of the "Nicosia State Hospital" in the Turkish-occupied north of Cyprus. She had been transferred there from Famagusta Hospital shortly before her death.
The autopsy, overseen by the Turkish Cypriot “Ministry of Health” and forensic experts, is expected to determine whether Olivia’s family administered any medication to her following her earlier discharge from Famagusta Hospital. The findings are anticipated to shed light on the cause of death.
According to Turkish Cypriot media reports, Olivia was under the care of a pediatric neurologist who ordered an MRI scan due to suspicions of a brain infection. Before the scan, she received what was described as a mild sedative to help her remain still during the procedure. Her vital signs were reportedly being monitored, with part of the process captured on video.
The child’s parents told local outlets that Olivia had received two injections before the MRI and lost consciousness after the scan began. Despite the efforts of a cardiologist, neurologist, and the pediatric emergency team, resuscitation attempts were unsuccessful.
Medical specialists have stated that the sedative used prior to the scan is not typically associated with cardiac arrest and defended the neurologist’s decision to proceed with the MRI as medically appropriate given the suspected infection.
Authorities have reviewed security camera footage from the Nicosia hospital, collected witness statements, and launched an internal inquiry. Alongside the police and forensic examination, health and human rights organizations have called for independent oversight and greater transparency in the investigative process.
In a joint declaration, the Turkish Cypriot Medical Union (Tıp-İş), Medical Association (KTTB), Medical Chamber (KTTO), and Dental Chamber (KTDTO) urged for the swift completion of all investigations, criminal, forensic, and administrative. They emphasized that a full and transparent review of each stage of the incident is essential to ensure accountability, uphold medical ethics, and deliver justice for the child and her family.
