GEORGE TOWN – An officer at Seberang Prai Prison has become the first Penang Prisons Department employee to contract Covid-19.
State department director Roslan Mohamed said the 32-year-old with the record division was confirmed positive yesterday.
“He is currently receiving treatment at Penang Hospital.
“His family members have undergone screening and are awaiting their results.”
Roslan added that at least 4,500 masks are needed a day for use by inmates at both Seberang Prai Prison and Penang Remand Prison, and presently, supply is running short.
The lack of protective gear is because the items are not reusable, he said.
“The Health Ministry and National Security Council are aware of this matter. We are still waiting for masks to be given to us.
“We also receive donations of masks from non-governmental organisations and private individuals. However, they are still not enough,” he told the press at an event, where Datuk Keramat rep Jagdeep Singh Deo handed over essential goods to Penang Remand Prison staff and their families, today.
A total of 113 families were this week placed under the targeted enhanced movement control order, following the detection of Covid-19 cases among inmates.
“There are no more detainees coming into or leaving both prisons, as we want to ensure the disease doesn’t spread in the community,” said Roslan.
“Currently, all suspects are being held in the police lock-up. If there’s a need, prisoners will be sent to Taiping Prison.”
There are 291 coronavirus cases among inmates at Penang Remand Prison at the latest count, and 27 at Seberang Prai Prison. – The Vibes, October 18, 2020
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