Family Calls for Investigations after Ghanaian Student in Italy Dies in Hospital Mishap

The family of a Ghanaian student based in Italy and the Ghanaian student body in the country have called for an investigation to be carried out into the death of Charles Yeboah Baffour.

Baffour, 24, was studying for a master’s degree in economics at the University of Cassino when he died from medical complications after being involved in an accident on Friday, April 4.

Speaking in an interview with Adom FM, Prince Boadu Boateng, the President of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) in Italy, narrated that Charles was involved in an accident that fateful night and was transported to the emergency unit of Santa Scholastica Hospital.

Baffour was discharged around 3:30 a.m. after being treated and undergoing several tests, said Boateng. According to Corriere, he complained of a headache and abdominal pains during the inspection and was asked to go for a CT scan. However, the doctor failed to recognise the gravity of his situation and discharged him. Baffour did not go home because he was tired and debilitated and slept on a hospital stretcher.

Boateng said the Cassino University student was found the next morning in critical condition and was later pronounced dead. He reportedly died of a ruptured liver due to internal bleeding.

The circumstances of the death led to NUGS and Baffour’s family, who reside in Modena, to call for an investigation. NUGS have also petitioned the Ghanaian mission in Italy, the President and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to intervene and facilitate a swift investigation and possible prosecution of any negligent authorities.

According to reports in Italy, an investigation has already been commenced, and several health workers could face prosecution. The doctor who examined the Ghanaian and discharged him faces charges of manslaughter. Cassino University, where Baffour studied for his bachelor’s degree as well, paid tribute to the Ghanaian in a social media post, with a video showing several memorable moments on campus.