Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji (SR)
Panaji, Aug 28: More than 70 personnel of the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB), which guards the entrance of central jail at Colvale, have been transferred following the seizure of around 40 cellphones, chargers and earphones from inmates over the last few months.
As reported in TOI, sources told the publication that IRB personnel posted at gates are responsible for checking every vehicle and frisking those entering the jail premises. “With inmates being caught with mobiles, it was obvious that checking wasn’t thorough and some persons visiting the jail were being facilitated to carry items to pass on to inmates.”
After repeated incidents of inmates being caught with cellphones, the matter was brought to the notice of the IRB commandant and action was sought.
Ajit Panchwadkar, additional inspector general of prisons confirmed the news and said “We had given our view about the security arrangement. IRB has been instructed to frisk even the officials visiting the jail so as to leave no room for suspicion. Similarly, jail guards, who were previously allowed to carry their food and bags into the barracks, are no longer permitted to do so and are required to go through regular security checks.''