“The supplies include foam mattresses, pillows, and blankets, among others. We have currently embarked on the distribution of these beddings to the various correctional centres in the Western Area Urban and those in the provinces,” he said.

He said the supply of beddings is done once a year but most times, it is done at the beginning of the rainy season.

“During the rainy season, the atmosphere would become very cold and to keep the inmates warm, we would change their beddings during this period. So, the supply of beddings at this time of the year is always timely,” he said.

He disclosed that a new correctional centre, which is under construction at Waterloo, is expected to be completed by the first week of August, 2019, adding that the new centre would host 120 male and 10 female inmates, thereby helping to decongest the Male Correctional Centre on Pademba Road in Freetown.

In an effort to enhance food security and support the government in providing food for the inmates, SLCS has prioritised the cultivation of crops in provincial areas.

According to the SLCS Deputy Director General, they are currently embarking on inland valley swamps (IVS) farming in Kabala, Mafanta, etc., and 60 hectares land have been cultivated with sorghum, corn, cassava, rice, etc. in Mafanta.

He added that construction exercise of child-friendly centres for children of female inmates is at completion stage in Freetown and Kenema.