Jail reopens after 20yrs

AFTER more than 20 years, the Hawa Prison in Hela has taken in 11 prisoners from the Bihute prison in Eastern Highlands.
Hela Governor Philip Undialu confirmed that the 11 male prisoners were transferred to Hawa over the weekend.
“Today, about 11 male prisoners from Bihute prison were transferred to Hawa CIS to start the operation,” he said.
“Current the capacity is about 50. That means, we still have space for 39 prisoners.
“Anyone arrested of wrongdoing from today will be directed to Hawa,” Undialu said.
He thanked CIS Minister Chris Nangoi and Correctional Services Commissioner Stephen Pokanis and also acknowledged jail commander Simon Kitingi and his officers for their efforts in ensuring Hawa opened.
According to Undialu, the Hawa prison was closed in 1997.
He also commended Hela administrator William Bando and his staff for their effort in having the prison renovated and brought up to standard; landowners were also thanked for their cooperation.
The work on the prison included new perimeter fencing with access road works, building maintenance and additional accommodation established for inmates. “We are taking law and order seriously,” Undialu said.
“We are determined that Hela will never be the same again.”