Updated:2024-10-08 14:11 Views:123
SINGAPORE: Former transport minister S Iswaran has been put in a single-man cell due to the higher safety and security risk of being housed with other inmates, the Singapore Prison Service (SPS) said on Monday (Oct 7).
This cell is about 6.9 sq m including toilet space and he has been provided with a straw mat and two blankets on which to sleep, SPS said on Monday night in response to queries from CNA.
SPS said all inmates in its custody receive the same treatment and are subject to the same prison rules and processes.
“S Iswaran underwent safety, security and medical assessment, as per other inmates. As we assessed that there is a higher safety and security risk for S Iswaran to be housed with other inmates, we have housed him in a single-man cell.”
The 62-year-old began his 12-month jail term on Monday after surrendering at the State Courts ahead of a 4pm deadline.
Elaborating on its processes, SPS said: “Upon admission, all inmates have their personal belongings collected and documented for safekeeping. The items will be returned to them upon release.
"They are searched for contraband. After which, they are examined by a Prison Medical Officer.
“All inmates are provided with the basic necessities for daily living – toothbrush, toothpaste, clothing, slippers, towel, and plastic spoon for meals.”
According to SPS, its cells can house one inmate, up to four inmates, or up to eight inmates. All cells come with toilet facilities.
"Inmates with severe medical conditions or clinical needs, upon the Prison Medical Officer’s assessment, may be housed in an Assisted Living Correctional Unit or a Medical Ward for medical monitoring," added SPS.
“Inmates are housed in different types of cells based on our assessment of their safety and security risk747 live, as well as medical needs."
A Singapore Prison Service van believed to be carrying former transport minister S Iswaran leaves the State Courts on Oct 7, 2024. (Photo: CNA/Wallace Woon)