Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Africa Links 24
Published on 2024-02-28 12:27:57
The Botswana Prison Service (BPS) Commissioner, Dinah Marathe, recently issued a stern warning to prison guards regarding the smuggling of contraband materials into correctional facilities. This warning came during the senior officers’ conference in Francistown where Marathe highlighted the ongoing issue of contraband smuggling facilitated by both prison officers and inmates.
Marathe expressed her concern over the smuggling of contraband materials in prison facilities, noting that while most offenders are successfully rehabilitated, there are still individuals who engage in illegal activities within the prison walls. These illegal activities, such as smuggling drugs, sharp objects, and cellphones, are made possible through the collaboration of officers and inmates.
While only two cases involving officers have been registered so far, Marathe emphasized that the smuggling of contraband materials remains a significant concern. She warned that any prison officer found to be involved in smuggling contraband materials with inmates will face dismissal from their position. Marathe stressed that aiding inmates in illegal activities not only hinders their rehabilitation process but also poses a risk to the overall safety and security of the correctional facilities.
In addition to addressing the issue of officer involvement in contraband smuggling, Marathe also warned visitors of inmates to refrain from aiding in the smuggling of prohibited items. She highlighted cases where visitors have concealed contraband in toiletries brought for inmates, emphasizing the need for all stakeholders to work together in promoting a rehabilitative environment within the prison system.
Marathe underscored the importance of the prison environment being focused on rehabilitation rather than serving as a breeding ground for criminal activities. She urged for collaborative efforts from all parties involved to ensure the successful rehabilitation of offenders and to maintain the integrity of the correctional facilities.
The BPS Commissioner’s strong stance against contraband smuggling reflects the seriousness with which the issue is being addressed within Botswana’s prison system. By emphasizing the consequences for those involved in illegal activities, Marathe aims to deter both officers and inmates from engaging in activities that undermine the rehabilitation process and compromise the safety of the prison environment.
Overall, Marathe’s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the principles of rehabilitation and security within correctional facilities. It sends a clear message that those found culpable of aiding in contraband smuggling will face swift and decisive action, including dismissal from their positions. This zero-tolerance approach underscores the commitment of the BPS to maintaining a safe and rehabilitative environment for both inmates and staff members.
Read the original article on Gazette News
