Prison allegation investigated

By Joyetter Luamanu 11 January 2018, 12:00AM

Allegations that a prison guard was in a drinking session with a prisoner at the Tanugamalala Post is being investigated by the Ministry of Prisons and Correction Services. 

This was confirmed by Ministry of Prisons and Correction Services Assistant Commissioner, Ulugia Niuia Aumua, in response to questions from the Samoa Observer. 

Sources within the prison told the Samoa Observer that it was during the holidays that the alleged incident occurred. 

“This happened during the holiday season. 

“The prison guard was caught with the prisoner at a store in Tanugamalala and that’s when the issue came to light, given the prisoner was not at the post, but at a public area. 

“An investigation was launched and the prison guard was questioned along with the prisoner. 

“The prison guard was placed on leave, however not long after, he was called to come back to work,” said the source inside the Prison Services. 

The source in jail told the Samoa Observer the prison guard in question is on employment probationary term given that he hasn’t been working that long. 

Ulugia said in response: “Of any incident in our organisation as with other government departments, any allegation is just that until a proper inquiry is conducted.  

“There has been an allegation and our inquiry is nearly completed.” 

Asked as to whether the prison guard is on leave, Ulugia declined to comment. 

“Regrettably, your other questions cannot be answered at this stage while the inquiry is continuing.” 

Minister of Prisons and Correction, Tialavea Tionisio Hunt, told the Samoa Observer that alcohol is not allowed on any of the Prison’s premises. 

“And this is unacceptable and reckless. 

“I will look into this,” said the Minister.

By Joyetter Luamanu 11 January 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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