The Fiji Corrections Service has launched a thorough investigation following the discovery of unauthorized phone usage by Bainimarama, who is currently serving time at the Nasinu Correction Center.
This investigation comes in the wake of a High Court order that required the creation of a medical plan for the prisoner, including the use of his mobile phone for a pacemaker app.
Bainimarama had been granted limited access to his phone for medical purposes but is now being investigated for making private calls, which is a clear violation of prison regulations.
The FCS is committed to maintaining the highest standards of security and order within its facilities, and any breach of these regulations is taken very seriously.
Commissioner of Corrections, Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, emphasized that the safety and security of correction facilities are of paramount importance.
FCS is conducting a comprehensive investigation to determine how this breach occurred and to ensure it does not happen again.
Dr. Nakarawa mentioned that appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken against any individuals found to be negligent or complicit in this matter.
The FCS is also reviewing its current policies and procedures to strengthen controls over the medical treatment of inmates, including the use of mobile phones in such cases.
This includes reassessing the protocols for granting special accommodations to prisoners with medical needs to ensure that these allowances do not compromise security.
The FCS understands the need to balance the medical requirements of prisoners with the imperative to maintain strict adherence to prison regulations. The results of this investigation will inform future decisions on how best to manage this balance.
The Fiji Corrections Service is dedicated to the safe custody and rehabilitation of offenders, aiming to reintegrate them into society as law-abiding citizens.