ABDULLAH MUGHAL

LAHORE: Inspector General of Prisons Punjab Shahid Saleem Baig has suspended five senior officers of Jhelum prison over unsatisfactory security arrangements.

Well-informed sources told Business Recorder that the IG Prisons paid a surprise visit to district jail Jhelum late on Sunday night where he found security arrangements “unsatisfactory” as four jail warders were standing in leisure mood by putting down their guns on the ground which compromised the security.

“This greatly annoyed the IG and he subsequently suspended four warders and an Assistant Superintendent of Jail (ASJ) who was liable to ensure security with his subordinates.”

IG Saleem also recovered a cell phone from the ASJ who was using it for his personal use outside the jail, the sources said, adding the use of mobile phones is prohibited in jails during duty hours.

The suspended officers were liable to ensure security at various sensitive points which include main gate, barriers and surveillance in bunkers, the sources said. “Prior to his visit, the IG also visited district jail Gujrat where he termed security arrangements satisfactory and appreciated the jail administration,” the sources claimed.

Responding to a query, they said the security has been intensified in all jails of the province to prevent any untoward situation in future. Currently, the security is on high-alert and any negligence could lead to a serious mishap, they added.