Recently, videos of inmates in prison uniform live streaming on social media platforms have been trending, raising questions on how easy it is for those behind bars to get contraband. The Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services (JICS) has come out to say they are not impressed with prisoners who've been doing TikTok videos while behind bars. They've warned inmates that this is a punishable offence with dire consequences.

IT'S NOT FASHIONABLE

JICS spokesperson Emerantia Cupido said the possession of a cellphone by an inmate was Illegal. She emphasised that the Department conducts regular searches of contraband in prison cells. "The DCS conducts spot checks and searches to combat the smuggling and usage of contraband items. It is important to note that illegal access to and use of cellphones is a punishable offence."

Cupido said inmates were deliberately given limited access to the outside world to avoid planned prison escapes and engaging in further criminal activities. "The JICS recognises that addressing the problem of defective telephone lines aligns with its core mandate. By improving communication systems within correctional centres, inmates will have better access to communication with their loved ones. This, in turn, reduces the demand for smuggling cellphones as effective communication channels are readily available," he said.

IT'S NOT A GAME

The public is also urged to avoid entertaining or interacting with inmates via social media platforms. Cupido said inmates post live stream videos of themselves although they don't show their faces. "Only their conversations are recorded, It also shows messages coming in from online followers interacting with the inmates through the live streams. They are wearing prison uniforms and are in cells. We've received several reports on this and plan to tighten our grip," she said.