Details Emerge in Death of 9-Year-Old Girl: Hospital Footage Under Review

An internal investigation has been launched at the hospital, while the Cyprus Turkish Medical Association has called for a swift and comprehensive administrative inquiry alongside police and forensic investigations. Experts say the exact cause of death will only be determined after an advanced autopsy and a review of surveillance footage.

According to information obtained by Kıbrıs Postası, Chinyere was first admitted to the Famagusta State Hospital with symptoms resembling a seizure. Doctors reportedly advised that she remain under observation, but her family chose to leave the hospital. When her condition worsened, she was brought back and later transferred to Nicosia for further treatment.

At Burhan Nalbantoğlu Hospital, a paediatric neurologist suspected a possible brain infection and ordered an MRI scan. Because the child needed to remain still during the procedure, a sedative—described as “mild” and not known to stop the heart—was administered.

Chinyere fell asleep after receiving the medication and was placed under observation. According to reports, which are said to be supported by CCTV footage, her heart rate and breathing were monitored as doctors awaited her to wake up. After some time, her mother noticed that she was no longer breathing and called for help.

A cardiologist immediately intervened, followed by neurology and intensive care teams, but despite all efforts, the girl could not be saved.

Experts have stated that a definitive explanation can only be made after reviewing hospital footage and the autopsy results. They also noted that tests will determine whether the family administered any medication to the child after leaving Famagusta Hospital.

Medical professionals emphasized that the sedative given before the MRI would not have caused cardiac arrest and that the neurologist’s decision to order the scan on suspicion of encephalitis was medically justified.

The Cyprus Turkish Medical Association issued a written statement expressing deep sorrow over the child’s death, underlining the importance of a thorough and transparent investigation by police, judicial authorities, and independent experts. “As physicians whose duty is to preserve life, we share the profound pain of losing a child,” the statement read, stressing the need for cooperation with all relevant authorities to uncover the truth.

Hospital management confirmed that security cameras are being reviewed, an internal investigation has been launched, and staff statements are being taken as the Ministry of Health continues to examine the incident in detail.