Tensions flared outside Dickoya Hospital yesterday as residents and estate workers staged a large-scale protest over allegations that three hospital employees sexually abused the body of a young woman inside the mortuary.

The protest erupted after claims surfaced that three minor staff members had allegedly entered the mortuary at night and sexually abused the corpse of a woman who had reportedly died by suicide last week. The body had been placed in the mortuary pending post-mortem examinations before being released to her family.

The allegations, which first circulated among hospital insiders, quickly spread through the surrounding communities, triggering outrage and fear. Protesters gathered outside the hospital gates, with workers from nearby estates reportedly halting work to join the demonstration.

Several protesters raised concerns over what they described as suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident. They alleged that three staff members were granted leave on the same day the body was released. They further claimed that CCTV footage showed three individuals entering the mortuary area during the relevant period.

Some members of the community also alleged that the condition of the body appeared altered at the time it was handed over to the family, although these claims have not been independently verified.

Demonstrators voiced a lack of confidence in the hospital’s internal administrative processes, insisting that an internal inquiry alone would not be sufficient.

“We cannot accept a situation where even the dead are not treated with dignity. We want an independent police investigation,” one protester said, expressing concern over the safety and integrity of the institution.

Police were deployed to the area as the protest intensified, and discussions were held between hospital management, including the Medical Superintendent, police officials, and representatives of the protesters.

Following the discussions, authorities assured that a formal investigation would be conducted. While the hospital had initially commenced an internal inquiry, officials agreed that the matter would be formally handed over to the police to ensure a comprehensive criminal investigation.

Police have not yet confirmed whether any arrests have been made.

Protesters warned that further demonstrations would be organised if swift and transparent action is not taken.