Samoa prisoners lose weekend privileges

Inmates at Samoa's prison have lost weekend leave privileges following a spate of escapes.

Some people jailed for low-level offences had previously been allowed to go for home visits on Saturday, before returning on Monday afternoons.

But Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi last week called for the privileges to be revoked after the spate of escapes.

He also called for guards to improve their fitness so they can chase after them.

Now, prisoners will only be released for hospital appointments or to attend funerals, where they will accompanied by a police officer.