A DETAINEE at the Verne immigration removal centre on Portland was found hanged in a toilet cubicle last month, an inquest has heard.

Branko Zdravkovic, who was 43, died at the centre on April 9. He had been the subject of enhanced observation because he was believed to be at risk of self-harm.

Mr Zdravkovic was a user of the drug Spice, a synthetic cannabinoid, it was said.

At 9.35pm on the day of Mr Zdravkovic’s death, he was seen standing in his cell by staff carrying out checks.

Less than two hours later, at 11.20pm, he was found hanged in a cubicle in a communal toilet area.

Police believe there are no suspicious circumstances to his death.

However, representatives from the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman are carrying out a review.

A full inquest is due to take place in August.

Speaking last month, a Home Office spokesperson said: “We can confirm that a 43-year-old man who had been detained at the Verne immigration removal centre died at the centre on April 9 2017.

“Our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.

“A full independent investigation will be conducted.”