Prisons dept steps up intel gathering, monitoring after contraband claims

 Department acknowledges isolated incidents of misconduct can happen but maintains security procedures are strictly enforced.

A news report exposed claims by former and current prison wardens of a widespread contraband trade – including drugs, mobile phones, and tobacco – smuggled into facilities like Taiping and Kajang prisons via compromised officers and inmate networks. (File pic)

PETALING JAYA:

The prisons department is conducting ongoing intelligence, monitoring, and compliance reviews to identify security risks and rule violations across all of its institutions nationwide.

In a statement, the department said these measures are carried out alongside strict SOPs to detect threats and enable timely preventive and enforcement action.

While acknowledging that isolated incidents or misconduct could occur within any institution, the department maintained that it handled every identified breach according to existing regulations.

“Safety, security, discipline, and inmate welfare remain top priorities in managing prison institutions across the country,” the department said.

The statement follows a New Straits Times report on claims by former and current prison wardens of a widespread contraband trade – including drugs, mobile phones, and tobacco – smuggled into facilities like Taiping and Kajang prisons via compromised officers and inmate networks.

The department urged anyone with information or complaints regarding misconduct, illegal acts, or the smuggling of prohibited items to lodge official reports directly with the police or relevant authorities.

“The department is always open to receiving information that can help strengthen prison security and management. However, any allegations must be submitted through the appropriate channels to ensure they are verified based on facts and evidence,” it said.

The public was also advised to obtain information from official sources and refrain from making unverified claims or speculating in ways that could undermine confidence in the national correctional system. - FMT