Escapees still at large, officers disciplined

By REBECCA KUKU
THE 46 prisoners who recently escaped from a prison in Madang are still at large, as disciplinary action are taken against Correctional Service (CS) officers.
Commissioner Stephen Pokanis said investigations into the breakout from Beon Prison in November found that the 22 prisoners who escaped were assisted by outsiders.
“The normal disciplinary process will be followed and the four officers who were on duty at the time of the breakout will face disciplinary action,” he said.
“For the second break out early this month, the (escape by the) 24 prisoners was due to plain negligence by the CS officers on guard.
“They have all been suspended.”
He said investigations were continuing. The CS commanding officer has been warned, four officers were disciplined and four were suspended.
Pokanis said all 46 were still on the run.
He warned prison commanding officers that they needed to step up.
“I will replace commanding officers if prisoners escape under their watch,” he said.
“They must inspect officers on duty and be in full control to manage and contain detainees securely.
“Commanding officers also have the power to suspend, charge officers who defaulted and recommend them for dismissal to me.
“If they do not charge the officers, they show that they cannot command, lead and manage their officers and detainees.
“So they must be replaced.”