Upgrade begins at Vanimo jail after court order

Construction of a new mess hall and women’s compound has begun at the Vanimo Correctional Service, following a National Court order to upgrade basic facilities at the deteriorating jail.

Vanimo CS Commander Michael Auirap confirmed work has started after Justice David Cannings issued enforcement orders under Section 57 of the Constitution.

The orders directed the West Sepik Provincial Government and the Department of Correctional Service to address breaches of basic human rights at Vanimo jail.

Auirap said the West Sepik Provincial Government has allocated K300,000 to contractor China Railway Group for Phase one.

"Phase 1 is now under the West Sepik Provincial Government. This covers the construction of new cell blocks and a mess hall," he said.

Phase two will cover perimeter fencing and additional infrastructure. This will be funded and managed by the Department of Correctional Services, National Planning and Monitoring, and Treasury.

The total cost of both phases is K600,000.

Commander Auirap said CS ministry is yet to sign an agreement with the contractor to commence second phase of construction.

"I am calling on the Department of Correctional Services to have that agreement signed so that the projects can be completed," he said.

The upgrades are expected to improve living conditions for inmates at Vanimo CS, which has faced ongoing issues with overcrowding and poor infrastructure.