(Jamaica Gleaner) – A Jamaican who was set to be deported from the UK slashed his throat soon after boarding a Virgin flight to Jamaica at Gatwick Airport.
A report on BBC said that the man was taken to hospital with “superficial injuries” shortly after boarding a Virgin Atlantic flight which was about to take off.
A UK Border Agency spokesman said an investigation was being launched into the incident, the report said.
The flight, VS69, has been delayed until 1245 BST tomorrow.
The man, who was being deported to Kingston, Jamaica, was reportedly treated by paramedics who “glued” together his throat wound, the report continued.
A Virgin Atlantic spokesman said: “The safety and welfare of our crew and passengers is Virgin Atlantic’s top priority.
“Virgin Atlantic is co-operating with the authorities in their investigation of the incident and is offering counselling support to passengers and crew.”
The 449 passengers are being put up in local hotels pending the delayed flight tomorrow but Virgin said passengers would be permitted to switch flights.
Virgin Atlantic thanked the passengers for their patience.
It is not immediately clear if the authorities will try to deport him on the same flight tomorrow.
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