DGP inspects Hindalga prison in Belagavi

Director General of Police (Prisons) Alok Kumar inspected the Central prison at Hindalga in Belagavi, Karnataka, on February 17.

He said that he had sought a report from officials on how some prisoners were able to make calls on mobile phones despite the installation of network signal jammers in the jail.

“There have been reports that some inmates were using mobile phones and SIM cards. Police officials have seized phones and SIM cards during raids in jails in Belagavi, and in other places. We want to find out whether it is a technical issue or something else,’’ he said.

Mr Kumar said he conducted a comprehensive review of the security arrangements. He obtained information about the security arrangements inside and outside the jail, supervision of prisoners, and the working methods of the staff. He warned officials of strict action if they fail to prevent illegal activities inside the jail, like use of mobile phones, use of banned substances, or any other violation.

He said that Hindalga was one of the oldest prisons in Karnataka, and the building was quite old.

“The jail is adjacent to the main road. There are some security challenges. Recently, there has been an instances of ganja and SIM cards, and mobile phones being thrown inside the jail by someone from the outside. I have told officials to prevent outsiders from throwing drugs, phones or weapons inside the jail,” he said.

He said the security and surveillance system in jails across Karnataka would be strengthened.

He was accompanied by Chetan Singh Rathod, IGP (Northern Range), T.P. Shesha, IGP (Prisons), Belagavi Police Commissioner Borase Bhushan Gulabrao, Superintendent of Police K. Ramarajan, and jail Superintendent Krishnamurthy.