The Guyana Prison Service (GPS) said that it has taken note of public concerns, primarily expressed through social media, regarding resource allocation and incidents of prisoner-staff altercations at its Lusignan penitentiary.
According to a GPS press release, while there was one case of a prison officer being assaulted by a prisoner, the matter was promptly dealt with through the appropriate disciplinary measures and welfare support was facilitated for the officer.
Senior Superintendent of Prisons in charge of Lusignan correctional facility Deoraj Gyandat, the release said, clarified that other claims are untrue.
Further, the release added, Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot disclosed that there had been significant upgrades, especially at the Lusignan, New Amsterdam, and Mazaruni facilities, with over $16 billion earmarked for GPS operations and infrastructure over the past three years. Recent approval for hiring over 90 personnel in various roles aims to bolster administrative and operational support, enhancing daily prison activities, Elliot underscored. According to the statement, currently, 35 recruits are undergoing comprehensive training in prison management to strengthen custodial supervision and operational efficiency. Elliot encouraged the public to seek accurate information from the GPS instead of spreading misinformation that may undermine the dedicated efforts of the institution’s professionals, the release said. The Office of the Director of Prisons welcomes direct communication for any clarifications needed, it added.
