2.2.7 The Annual Report for the first time included information on DCS investigations into the 55 reported unnatural deaths, broken down into 19 homicides, 30 suicides and six deaths of which the causes were classified as unknown, for 2009. Although there appeared to have been discrepancies between the DCS' records and what HCCs had reported to the JICS, the DCS eventually confirmed the JICS record. In 47 of the cases investigations had, at the time of reporting, not yet been completed. DCS officials were implicated in 18 homicides; at least one death resulting from continuous assault by officials even after the victim had ceased to pose a threat. The information received from the DCS made clear that there was a dire need for the JICS' inquisitorial role to be strengthened. It was pointed out that many of the suicides may have been prevented had the DCS acted on reports that inmates who later killed themselves, were suicidal. In such cases negligence could be proved, and therefore proper inquests ought to take place.