Negligence of duty officers led to prison breakouts

 By LAZARUS BIRA

Correctional Service acting Commissioner Michael Waipo says the recent escapes from its facilities in the country were due to negligence by officers.

Waipo said investigations would be conducted and those responsible would be dealt with.

“The 35 prisoners who escaped from the Barawagi Correctional institution in Chimbu last Sunday was not a breakout. They walked out of the institution,” he said.

“This was because the officer guarding the cells was not there. He was locked out in the evening. That allowed the prisoners to walk out.”

Waipo said 13 of them were recaptured last Friday and one shot dead.

“Three seriously injured prisoners are hospitalised at the Kundiawa General Hospital.

“This is the result of pure negligence on part of duty officers. 

“Investigations have been instituted and those officers responsible for allowing the escapes will be charged according to the law.”

Waipo said the escapes in Biru, Northern, last month would be investigated and a report was expected.

“The Correctional Service director for Southern region and his executive officer will head the investigation.

“Appropriate action will be taken on the individuals responsible.”

Waipo said last Thursday there had been an attempted escape by a prisoner from Bui-lebi jail.