Prisons Commissioner suspended

Samoa Prisons Commissioner suspended

The Ministry of Prisons and Correctional Services has launched an inquiry following the escape from the new, multi-million dollar, high-security prison.

Corrections Minister Tialavea Tionisio Hunt told Parliament on Tuesday that there was breach of duty by a prison officer which led to the escape.

Talamua OnlineĀ reports the officer, Usipani Simi, is alleged to have opened a door allowing the inmates to abscond.

He has reportedly been dismissed and charged.

Other prison officers who were on duty on Sunday morning are being investigated.