January 26, 2005

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  23 at Guantanamo Attempted Suicide in 2003
  
  
  
  
  
  

  Mon Jan 24, 5:10 PM ET

  
  

  By PAISLEY DODDS, Associated Press Writer

  
  

  Between Aug. 18 and Aug. 26, 23 detainees tried to hang or strangle themselves with pieces of clothing and other items in their cells. Ten detainees made a mass attempt on Aug. 22 alone.

  
  

  Those incidents were mentioned casually during a visit earlier this month by three journalists, but officials then immediately denied there had been a mass suicide attempt. Further attempts to get details brought a statement Friday night, with some clarifications provided Monday.

  
  

  In 2003, there were 350 'self-harm' incidents, including 120 'hanging gestures,' according to Lt. Col. Leon Sumpter, a spokesman for the detention mission. Last year, there were 110 self-harm incidents, he said.

  
  

   

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