Prison Service gets AI-powered surveillance, body cams for guards

In an effort to improve transparency and accountability within the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), the organisation is moving to install an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered surveillance and security system across all prison facilities.
Speaking during this week’s edition of the programme ‘Safeguarding our Nation’, Director of Prison Nicklon Elliot said this system will be monitored by a central command centre.
Additionally, the GPS is installing modern scanners at all prison locations in an effort to crackdown on the smuggling of contraband into the prison system.
Moreover, within the next two weeks, prison officers will begin using body cameras.
Elliot noted that the goal is to modernise the GPS and this means getting the right workforce.
He said there is a dedicated Recruitment Board responsible for hiring persons to work on the system. This, he said, is a transparent, merit-based process with outreach across all ten regions.
Moreover, he noted that officers’ salaries have risen from $113,347 to $165,723. Staff also benefit from new housing, mental health support, and care packages.
When it comes to discipline and integrity, Elliot emphasised that misconduct among officers is met with swift disciplinary or legal action.
“We are building a modern prison service that is professional, accountable and focused on rehabilitation,” the Prison Director said. “As Mandela reminded us, a nation should be judged by how it treats its lowest citizens, and that is a standard we aspire to meet.”