Man dies in custody at Wheatfield Prison

An investigation is under way into a man’s death at Wheatfield Prison in Dublin shortly before midnight on Thursday.

It's understood the man, who was 39 and from Dublin, was in his cell, which he shared with another prisoner, when he died.

He had been serving a sentence of two years and nine months for possession of drugs for sale or supply.

The Irish Prison Service said the cause of death is determined by the Coroner’s Office. It said the man's next of kin have been informed.

In its statement, the service said: “All deaths in custody are investigated by the Irish Prison Service, the Inspector of Prisons and An Garda Síochána, where circumstances warrant.

“The Irish Prison Service wish to express our condolences to the deceased’s family and friends."

Gardaí said a senior investigating officer has been assigned, and they are awaiting the results of a post-mortem to determine the direction of the investigation.

The services of the Garda National Technical Bureau have been requested.