Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Question 1

How many prisons (Correctional Institutions) altogether does Papua New Guinea have? 21 Correctional Institutions.  Two are currently temporarily closed which are Hawa Correctional Institution in Hela Province and Daru Correctional Institutions in Western Province.


Question 2

What is the total prison population of detainees currently in Correctional Institutions? There are currently a total of 4,616 convicted detainees spread across all Correctional Institutions.


Question 3

What is the current staff strength of members in the PNG Correctional Service?  The current staff strength spread across the 21 Correctional Institutions is about 1,449 active members.


Question 4

Are relatives/friends of prisoners allowed to visit them in prison?  Yes, relatives and friends of prisoners are allowed to visit them in prison under Section 72 of the CS Act No:6 of 1995 (Amended).


Question 5

Are prisoners allowed legal services? Yes, prisoners are allowed to have legal representation whilst in prison according to the CS Act No:6 of 1995 (Amended) and under Section 37 of the PNG National Constitution


Question 6

Can prisoners be released before completion of their sentences? Yes, prisoners are eligible by law under Section 17 of the Parole Act No: 16 of 1992 to apply for early release.


Question 7

What is the most common offence that people are imprisoned for?  Drug related offences are the most common according to our statistics.


Question 8

What forms of rehabilitation programs do the prisoners undertake whilst serving their sentences? a). Educational Programs, b). Church Activities and c). Community Service


Question 9

What qualification is needed for a person to become a Correctional Officer?  a. Grade 10 - 12 with technical skills/trade; b.  Degree with technical skills/trade and work experience.


Question 10

Have there been any recent developments within the Correctional Service? Yes, there have been a lot of recent developments within Correctional Services at all levels.  You can access these information which is uploaded onto this website in our News page regularly.