Six high-risk inmates transferred as ministry ramps up security measures at Fort Augusta
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Six high-risk inmates have been transferred from the Fort Augusta Adult Correctional Centre (FAACC) as part of efforts to enhance security measures at the South Camp Road facility following the recent assault of an inmate there.
Three other inmates have also been diagnosed as mentally ill and have been placed in singular cells following a health assessment by the institutions’ medical team.
The disclosure was made yesterday by Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security Rudyard Spencer following a meeting with officials of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) and a visit to the facility, where an inmate was stabbed several times during a brawl with another inmate at the women’s facility last week.
Spencer expressed that his ministry “deeply regret that this attack transpired and has even cause hurt to an inmate”, noting that the ministry will continue to do everything in their power to ensure that the basic rights of inmates are protected.
He explained that the “re-classification” of the inmates will serve to enhance the security of the inmates and staff and subsequently lower the risks of the violent outbreak at the facility.
The minister also noted that investigations are being conducted jointly by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) into the incident.
He added that “to further strengthen the security in these facilities, frequent random searches will be conducted and gate procedures enhanced at the institutions.”
The minister said additional staff will also be deployed in short order to reinforce the inmate to officer ratio in the facilities.
Another security measure that will be implemented is the removal of all electrical outlets on the cell blocks.
This, Spencer noted will prevent the charging of phones which will inherently prevent the use of these devices.
The minister also assured that the inmates are fed three nutritious meals daily, their living conditions are sanitary and is therefore dispelling the complaints and assertions made.
Spencer affirmed that “We continue to do everything in our power to ensure that the basic rights of inmates are protected.”
