By Bethanie Harriman – EM TV, Lae
Lae’s Buimo prison has been the centre of attention; like other government disciplinary forces there are ongoing issues of housing, logistics and infrastructure.
It’s a similar story for correctional services throughout Papua New Guinea. Jail space is getting smaller, and warder housing shortages have become a problem.
In Morobe Province, it’s no different. Buimo Jail was designed for 500 inmates but prisoner numbers are growing, surpassing its capacity.
Prisoner numbers are growing, which means more staff are needed.
Morobe Governor Kelly Naru, while on crutches delivering outstanding New Year food today, was asked about these issues.
He said the issue will be addressed in a collective approach by the Morobe administration and the National Government.
“It’s a National Government function but we will be taking responsibility,” says Governor Naru.
It is understood that conditions in the Buimo cells are so bad that prisoners have said they take turns to sleep, while toilets and corridors facilities have also become places where they sleep.
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