A Jamaican man who was being deported from the United Kingdom (UK) slashed his own throat on an aircraft in front of several passengers at the Gatwick Airport, the Guardian has reported.

Information reaching THE STAR is that the man whose identity was not released used a part of a razor blade to cut himself below the chin while the Virgin flight destined to Kingston taxied on the runway.

Following this the man was taken to a hospital where he was treated and released.

superficial injuries

A UK Border Agency spokeswoman said, "The individual was taken to the hospital with superficial injuries, treated and discharged, and is back into immigration custody. An investigation is under way."

THE STAR understands that the flight, which had 449 passengers and 17 crew members, was scheduled to depart at 12:45 p.m., but was postponed because of the incident.

A spokesman for the airline said: "Virgin Atlantic is cooperating with the authorities in their investigation of the incident and is offering counselling support to passengers and crew."

Meanwhile, THE STAR has learnt that in recent times there has been widespread concern about the treatment of detainees being deported from the UK.

In October, Jimmy Mubenga collapsed and died as he was being deported on a commercial flight from Heathrow. Passengers told police they saw three security guards heavily restraining Mubenga, who they said had been complaining of breathing difficulties. The guards were later arrested in connection with the death. They are to appear in court in September.

Earlier this year, four whistleblowers submitted evidence to the Commons home affairs select committee alleging serious failings during the removal of detainees from the UK.