Professor Andrew Azzopardi has formally requested that the Office of the Ombudsman launch an independent investigation into what he described as “inhumane” heat conditions inside Corradino Correctional Facility.In a request submitted on 13th July to the Commissioner for Health, Azzopardi cited reports from inmates, their families and the media describing unbearable temperatures inside the prison, with some cells reportedly exceeding 30°C.He warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to dehydration, cardiovascular strain, disrupted sleep and impaired cognitive function, adding that the risks are even greater for inmates with existing mental health conditions or those taking medication that affects the body’s ability to regulate temperature.Azzopardi argued that the current conditions compromise both prisoners’ wellbeing and the prison’s rehabilitative role.Among his recommendations are an independent multidisciplinary inspection, continuous temperature monitoring, the introduction of minimum standards for prison ventilation and cooling, and the publication of the findings in the interest of transparency.The request comes as Malta remains under a red heat warning, with temperatures forecast to reach 40°C to 41°C over the coming days.•