24 suspects identified in relation to hundreds of patient deaths at hospital

Police have identified 24 suspects as they investigate the deaths of hundreds of hospital patients in Hampshire.

The independent police investigation of the deaths at Gosport War Memorial Hospital was launched after a probe in 2018 found hundreds of patients had their lives shortened through the use of opioids.

At the time, the Gosport Independent Panel report concluded the lives of more than 450 people had been shortened because of the routine practice until the year 2000.

It added that at least another 200 patients were likely to be similarly affected.

The Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate - which is managing the investigation dubbed Operation Magenta - said Thursday it has taken 1,200 witness statements and is reviewing the records of more than 750 patients.

The force says the number of suspects being interviewed has risen to 24. Of this number, 21 are suspected of alleged gross negligence manslaughter, and three are being interviewed for alleged offences under the Health and Safety at Work Act.

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