Buimo CS officers complete first parole training in Lae

Seventeen [17] officers from the Buimo Correctional Service [CS] have been certified after successfully completing a weeklong parole training program in Lae last Friday.

The training was conducted through a collaboration between the Department of Justice and Attorney General [DJAG], CS, and the National Intelligence Organization [NIO]. It follows recent amendments to the Parole Act and marks the first program of its kind held in Lae.

Acting CS Commissioner Bernard Nepo congratulated the officers, stating that they are now equipped with the knowledge to assist inmates in meeting parole requirements.

“The training ensures our officers are prepared to guide inmates through the parole process. We have a good number of inmates eligible for release soon, and this program will help us manage that effectively,” Commissioner Nepo said.

He also confirmed that similar inmate release programs will be rolled out across the country and committed to supporting CS officers with the resources needed to perform their duties effectively.

Chief Parole Officer Elisabeth Mirio said the training was important, especially for newly graduated officers now entering the system.

“Officers must fully understand how the parole system operates after the amendments. Under the current law, prisoners sentenced to five years and above can apply for parole after serving half their term, while those sentenced to less than five years are released on remission,” Mirio said.

The parole training is expected to play a key role in improving rehabilitation and reintegration pathways for inmates nationwide.