Overview:
Public concern is growing after an inmate was fatally stabbed at Koror Jail last week, with government silence deepening mistrust in the Ministry of Justice’s ability to ensure safety and transparency within Palau’s correctional system. Despite confirmation of the inmate’s death, officials have yet to release key details about the attack, leaving citizens demanding answers.
By: Summer Kennard
KOROR, Palau — A week after an inmate was stabbed to death at Koror Jail, the government’s silence about what happened has fueled public concern and growing distrust in the Ministry of Justice’s ability to protect those in its custody.
The Bureau of Public Safety (BPS) has not released any updates since issuing a short statement last week confirming an inmate’s death. The statement said the man was found unresponsive and later died at the hospital, but it gave no details about how he was attacked. It described his criminal record but did not describe his injuries or the events leading to his death.
Sources told Island Times the inmate suffered several wounds to his neck. Unconfirmed reports also suggest the weapon used may have been a machete, not a knife. Officials have not confirmed those claims or named any suspect, although a fellow inmate’s name has circulated on social media.
The stabbing reportedly happened between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m., but it remains unclear if the victim was attacked inside his cell or somewhere else in the jail. Authorities have not said whether the inmate had a cellmate or if security cameras captured the assault.
Despite repeated questions from the media, BPS has declined to comment further, saying the case is still under investigation. The bureau insists it is taking steps to protect inmates and the public.
However, the lack of information has upset many citizens who wonder how such a violent crime could happen inside a locked government facility. The case has added to frustration over other unsolved crimes — including past murders, escapes, and missing-person cases.
Although the government has not identified the victim, family members of Johnston Etpison have confirmed his death on social media, matching reports linking him to the incident.
The government has yet to explain basic facts — such as what weapon was used, who is responsible, or how the attack happened despite 24-hour supervision and security cameras. For many, the silence has raised serious doubts about whether the Ministry of Justice can keep inmates safe or be transparent when things go wrong.