The relatives of 29-year-old Albanian Refik Mata, who passed away last December 17 in the Tarascon prison in France, are seeking justice. 

The 29-year-old was found dead in his cell, while authorities said it was a suicide. But Mata's family, who live in Imperia, Italy, do not believe this version. They seek to shed light on the death of their loved one. 

The case was taken by the lawyer Julie Boano, who a few days after the serious incident went to the prison cell together with the relatives of the victim to get his personal things. 

The family of the deceased mentions a case on October 7 when Refik appeared beaten up in a session where he would talk about his expulsion to Albania and never return to France. 

According to family members, he had visible signs of violence on his face and other parts of his body. When the judge asked him how he got those signs, the Albanian did not give a reason. 

"Refik had started working in prison and two days later his brother decided to visit him. He was fine. There have been several reports from prison officials that Refik was blamed for several incidents within the penitentiary institution. These reports surprised us because Refik was imprisoned in Nice in front of the prison in Tarascon and there was no special situation," said the lawyer. 

Mata was to be released in February 2024. According to his lawyer, he had no reason to take his own life. 

"Now everything is in the hands of investigators and we are waiting for a decision to be made, or it will be designated as suicide or otherwise an investigation will be opened," said the lawyer.