The São Toméan Government has dismissed the Director of Prison Services and Social Reintegration following the escape of “highly dangerous prisoners” in July 2024, according to an announcement made on Tuesday, September 3. The statement conveyed regret for “the damage and all the stress and panic caused” by the incident.
The announcement was issued by the Ministry of Justice, Public Administration, and Human Rights, and signed by Minister Ilza Amado Vaz. This follows the conclusion of an investigation that commenced on July 24.
The statement revealed that investigators spent 30 days interviewing prison officials, staff, and collecting pertinent information. Their findings were summarized in two documents outlining statements, facts, identified weaknesses, responsibilities, and recommendations.
Contrary to initial reports of “two highly dangerous inmates” escaping, the investigation found that “three inmates” actually fled from the Central Prison on July 20, 2024. One of the escapees was apprehended the same day by National Police officers near the prison.
While the investigation identified several factors contributing to the escape, this information remains confidential for security reasons and will not be released.
The government has appointed new leadership to address the situation: Deputy Superintendent Nair Márcia da Mata as Director General of Prison Services and Social Reintegration, Commissioner Abdelaziz Bandeira as Director of Social Reintegration, and Deputy Superintendent Alcides Santiago as Head of the Security and Surveillance Service.
The government has directed the new team to urgently “enhance security measures within the prison services” and ensure strict compliance with laws and regulations, including the implementation of recommendations from the inquiry report.