CS records zero mass prison escapes in 2025

Correctional Service has not recorded any mass prison breakouts this year.

Acting CS Commissioner Bernard Nepo confirmed this while delivering his Christmas and New Year message to CS staff and their families, prisoners, and the country in Port Moresby on Wednesday.

Mr Nepo thanked and commended CS officers and prisoners for their discipline and cooperation in 2025, describing the year as a positive turning point for the service after years of serious challenges.

He acknowledged the dedication of officers across the country, saying their commitment under difficult conditions ensured prisoners were managed safely and humanely throughout the year.

“I want to take this time to say thank you to all my staff members, who have committed their time in serving most of the prisoners, and so far, we've come this far.

"I thank them on a positive note because under the current situation that CS went through, a lot of challenges, but in the midst of all those challenges, all staff members were able to stand up, and they were able to manage all the prisoners fairly well.

"And so, I am confident to pass on my Christmas greetings to all my staff members, and of course, their families,” Nepo said.

Despite ongoing pressures such as overcrowding and limited resources, the Acting Commissioner said 2025 had been a good year for both CS and inmates.

“Despite having problem over the past years, 2025 has been good for the CS and imates. Mr Nepo placed on record that CS had no major jail breakouts this year,” said Nepo.

He credited the achievement to improved cooperation between staff and inmates, saying it showed that progress is possible when both work together for peace, security and national stability.

Mr Nepo also extended Christmas greetings to CS officers, prisoners and their families, urging everyone to look after their wellbeing during the festive season.

“There’s a lot of challenges going on, but it's not normal and ask all my families and staff members to take care of their lives and their well-being, not forgetting inmates throughout the country, who have been good throughout the year,” Nepo highlighted.

He said he is confident that the Correctional Service will continue to build on the gains made this year, while calling on communities to support efforts to maintain peace, discipline, and rehabilitation across the country.