The Deputy Director CCA and Uganda Prison Service spokesperson, Frank Baine, has said that prison officers are trained to shoot to disable, not to kill, highlighting their capacity to handle difficult circumstances.

Baine made these remarks while appearing on local television on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, as he shared insights on the recent attempted escape at Kira Magistrates Court.

During his speech, Baine commended the officers for successfully apprehending the inmate who attempted to escape and for doing so without endangering anyone.

“Our officers are trained to handle sensitive situations with precision and restraint. When necessary, our officers are trained to shoot to disable, not kill. This was evident in the single bullet shot to the inmate’s ankle, which prevented further escape attempts while minimizing harm,” he said.

Speaking about the prison’s health and safety concerns, Baine took pleasure in UPS’s ability to successfully contain COVID-19 within their facilities throughout the pandemic.

“We had 4000 cases of COVID-19, but only three inmates succumbed to the disease,” he noted, attributing this achievement to the exceptional work of their health team, who worked tirelessly to ensure the well-being of inmates.

He further emphasized the importance of physical exercise in maintaining prisoners’ health and immunity.

“In addition to our robust health measures, prisoners undergo various physical exercises that keep them fit and build stronger immunity,” Baine noted.

However, Baine discussed prison production and productivity, emphasizing the vocational skilling programs offered to inmates, with agriculture being one of the key components.

He noted that the government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF), has assigned the Uganda Prisons Service a food security intervention strategy.

Baine expressed pride in their progress, stating that they are implementing the presidential directives very well.

He underscored the ultimate objective of these endeavors, saying their goal is to transform every prisoner into productive, law-abiding citizens who can be integrated back into society.

“By equipping inmates with valuable skills and promoting productivity, the service aims to facilitate successful reintegration and reduce recidivism,” Baine added.

The ultimate goal of the Uganda Prisons Service is to promote safe, secure, and humane custody of individuals who come into conflict with the law.