Iipumbu warns against prisoner abuse

Safety and security minister Lucia Iipumbu has issued a stern warning to correctional officers, saying professionalism and discipline are non-negotiable and that the mistreatment of inmates will not be tolerated under her watch.

Addressing staff at the Oluno Correctional Facility in Ondangwa on Friday, Iipumbu said while the ministry expects a high standard of order, authority must never cross the line into abuse.

“Firmness is required in correctional work, but firmness must never be confused with cruelty."

She warned that any reports of mistreatment would be promptly investigated.

"Mistreating anyone is not our mandate. It is not the policy of government."

The minister also addressed staff relations.

She urged prison management and officers to treat one another with respect.

“Rank must be used to build order, not to break the spirit of colleagues,” she said.

Acknowledging the demanding conditions of the job, Iipumbu described correctional officers as the backbone of the justice system.

“A humane correctional service is not a weak correctional service,” the minister argued.

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