The Guyana Prison Service (GPS) has received 437 complaints of mistreatment of prisoners in the various facilities across the country since August 20th, 2020.
This revelation was made by Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn during his response to questions asked by APNU+AFC Member of Parliament, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, which was circulated during Wednesday’s sitting of the National Assembly.
Chandan-Edmond also asked about the investigation process for complaints of such nature.
In his written response, Benn explained that the complaints which are lodged by prisoners are made to the Duty Officers, who then refer those that are unresolved to the Officer-in-Charge.
This, Benn said is done on a weekly basis and individual concerns are addressed during the Officer-in-Charge’s formal weekly visit, or as necessary.
Benn added that the matters are “further” reviewed during the quarterly formal visits and hearings by the Director of Prisons.
“Requests to meet and raise matters with the Prison Visiting Committees for interventions are made and accepted,” he noted.
Additionally, Benn stated that there are also Inmate Complaint Committees, comprising of orderlies, who meet fortnightly with the Officer-in-Charge.
“The prisoners’ welfare officer is constantly available to address prisoners’ concerns additionally,” Benn said.
