A relative died in SIZO or a penal colony

• The administration must inform a close relative within 24 hours. The body is released on a written request to the facility head, usually within 2 days of the cause of death being established.
• The body is stored free for 7 days, up to 14 in difficult circumstances. A spouse, parents, children, siblings, grandparents or grandchildren can collect it; sometimes others arranging the funeral.
• If you suspect violence or denied treatment: file a crime report with the Investigative Committee. There is no forensic examination without a case. Keep letters, complaints and medical records.
• Belongings and money from the prison account go to the heirs. People without relatives, and foreigners not collected, are buried by the prison service. The grave number is recorded in the file.
• Where to turn: Public Verdict, Committee Against Torture team, First Department; psychological support: First Line.

current as of 25 September 2026. More: First Department: a relative died in custody (foreign agent)