Despite the presence of CCTV cameras at various Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) facilities throughout the country, inmates have found ways to smuggle syringes and needles into prison. The FCS acknowledges that this issue presents ongoing challenges, particularly concerning drug use and the risk of HIV infection among inmates. In a recent statement, the service confirmed that the needles discovered during searches were not sourced from Government pharmacies that cater to Prison Health Services or remand centers. Instead, they are suspected to be privately provided or smuggled in as contraband through body cavities.
The FCS has admitted that while CCTV cameras are installed, inmates continue to devise strategies to avoid detection. These incidents have led to enhanced planning for future preventative measures. The fear of contracting HIV in prison, as a result of forced injections by other inmates, has also been cited by some individuals in remand during bail applications at the High Court in Suva.
Additionally, the FCS highlighted issues with other contraband, such as cell phones and cigarette packets, being thrown over the fence at Korovou prison in Suva. Despite these challenges, the FCS has successfully identified and apprehended perpetrators utilizing CCTV and caught some in the act, leading to their arrest by the police. The FCS spokesman expressed regret that some perpetrators are former inmates who receive instructions post-release to throw in contraband.
A similar situation was previously reported where the assistant commissioner of operations, Auta Moceisuva, confirmed significant amounts of contraband, including drugs and mobile devices, being smuggled internally by inmates and thrown over prison walls by outsiders. This ongoing issue has led to daily perimeter patrols, random cell inspections, and stricter searches of both staff and inmates as part of increased security measures.
The root cause of these security breaches is compounded by the severe overcrowding in facilities like the Suva Remand Centre, which holds over 400 inmates—more than double its intended capacity of 200. Yet, the FCS maintains a zero-tolerance policy against drug use and any staff involvement in smuggling activities, relying on community cooperation to uphold the system’s integrity.
These proactive initiatives indicate a strong focus not only on enhancing security but also on promoting rehabilitation and reintegration for inmates, which is vital for societal safety and inmate welfare. Despite the persistent challenges, there is optimism that these measures will contribute to a safer and more rehabilitative environment within Fiji’s correctional facilities.
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