A recent Audit Office prison report for 2024–2025 highlights serious weaknesses in the operation of the Prisons Department, citing organisational problems, security gaps, and possible abuse of sick leave by staff.
The audit found that the Central Prisons face severe overcrowding, with inmate numbers rising without corresponding capacity increases. Between 15% and 20% of released prisoners return, further straining the system.
Operational and security shortcomings
The report identifies major operational deficiencies, including the absence of comprehensive protocols for managing critical incidents such as escapes, violence, or inmate uprisings. Riot response teams lack clear action plans and do not conduct readiness exercises, increasing risks during emergencies.
Staffing and attendance issues
Significant problems were also noted in personnel management. Many prison officers fail to record attendance properly in control systems, and discrepancies were found between shift rosters, handwritten logs, and electronic records, creating risks of incorrect overtime or allowance payments.
Sick leave abuse concerns
The report raises particular concern over staff sick leave. Instances were found where officers exceeded the 42-day annual limit, and sample checks revealed large inconsistencies between medical certificates and records in the national health system. Some cases involved certificates issued by specific doctors without recorded consultations, suggesting potential collusion to defraud the state.
Recommendations for reform
The Audit Office intends to refer the matter to relevant authorities for further investigation. It emphasises that the issues are systemic rather than isolated, recommending a full reorganisation of the Prisons Department, strengthened accountability, digitisation of procedures, and modernised control mechanisms.
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