TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, Dec. 7, CMC – The United Kingdom has funded a substantial support package for His Majesty’s Virgin Islands Prison Service (HMVIPS) to boost security, safety, and staff protection at His Majesty’s Prison (HMP).
This week, Lee Pilkington, Head of the National Locking Section for the UK Ministry of Justice’s Property Directorate, visited the prison and brought specialised tools and expertise used to maintain security across UK prisons, facilitating the sharing of advanced security measures to enhance safety for staff, inmates, and the broader community.
In addition, prison officers at HMP have been equipped with state-of-the-art radios and identification cards funded by the UK government.
These radios improve communication and coordination within the facility, significantly enhancing security and operational effectiveness. The identification cards streamline security processes, ensuring stricter access controls.
The upgraded radios have already proven instrumental in intercepting contraband items such as phones, drugs, weapons, and alcohol.
In response – Governor Daniel Pruce emphasised the importance of security during the handover.
“Security provides a strong foundation for growth and prosperity. The safety and security of Virgin Islanders is my top priority, and His Majesty’s Virgin Islands Prison Service is a key facet in that,” he stated.
Pruce explained that by enhancing security at HMP and investing in protecting and equipping prison officers, the prison service transforms lives and reduces the risk of reoffending. He added that this has helped improve the overall security of the Virgin Islands and safety in the community.
Meanwhile, HMP Superintendent Jay Kendall expressed gratitude for the support. “Fostering a culture of excellence at HMP is essential to safeguarding the Virgin Islands.
I extend my gratitude to our UK Ministry of Justice partners for their invaluable investment in our prison service and its future.”
This initiative follows a series of UK-supported efforts to address longstanding issues at the prison .
In October 2022, an independent review revealed that the prison had been “neglected for many years,” with poor physical security and low staff morale. The UK responded by deploying prison officers to assist in updating operating procedures and providing essential equipment, including mattresses, uniforms, handcuffs, and body-worn cameras.
Further support was demonstrated in November 2023, when UK Minister Mike Freer visited the BVI to discuss challenges within the justice system. He affirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting the prison noting that over the previous 12 months, the UK had provided training, personnel support, and equipment to the prison.