State Minister for National Security, Zavia Mayne is appealing to newly recruited correctional officers to remember their duty of protecting the public from criminals. He says while criminals are incarcerated the wardens should ensure they are not given access to electronic devices or other contrabands. The State Minister says the government will be taking a zero-tolerance approach to the smuggling of contraband into prison facilities.

He said it is against this background that the law has been amended where correctional officers can face prison time if found in breach. Mayne, who was speaking at the recent passing out parade for the 82nd intake correctional officers in Runaway Bay, says the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) contributes to national security by securing, supervising, rehabilitating, and reintegrating offenders as productive law-abiding citizens; this comes in wake of a number of videos circulating on social media, showing inmates with cell phones, alcohol, other devices, and drugs. The State Minister said the government remains resolute in providing the DCS with the necessary legislative support to achieve a reduction in reoffending through the implementation of policies and strategies that will aid in the rehabilitation and reintegration of wards of the state. The ceremony marked the end of 14 weeks of training for 64 new recruits at the college. Watch the report below:

Reporter: Nasika Alliman.

Watch more news here: Major Stories | Breaking News | Latest Developments – CVM TV