Iswaran to be placed in 1-person cell due to 'higher safety & security risk'

Former transport minister S Iswaran will be placed in a 6.9 sq m (74.3 sq ft) single-person cell alone, the Singapore Prison Service (SPS) said on Monday (Oct 7).

This is due to a higher safety and security risk of being housed with other inmates, SPS told CNA.

The 62-year-old will start his 12-month jail term on Monday, Oct. 7.

He surrendered at the State Courts before the 4pm deadline.

SPS said:

“S Iswaran underwent safety, security and medical assessment, as per other inmates.

As we assessed that there is a higher safety and security risk for S Iswaran to be housed with other inmates, we have housed him in a single-man cell.”

Treated the same like other inmates

The cell comes equipped with a straw mat, two blankets to sleep on, as well as toilet space.

Inmates are also provided a toothbrush, toothpaste, clothing, slippers, towel, and plastic spoon for meals, which are basic necessities for daily living.

All inmates in custody get the same treatment and are subjected to the same prison rules and processes, SPS said.

All inmates have their personal belongings collected and documented for safekeeping, SPS added.

The items will be returned to them upon release.

They are searched for contraband, and then examined by a Prison Medical Officer, SPS also said.

Different types of cells

There are different types of cells for one inmate, up to four inmates, or up to eight inmates.

Inmates with severe medical conditions or clinical needs may be housed in an Assisted Living Correctional Unit or a Medical Ward for medical monitoring, SPS said.

Inmates are encouraged to keep in contact with their family members and loved ones via face-to-face visits, tele-visits, or e-letters.

Iswaran can have up to two visits, one of which may be face-to-face.

He can write up to four e-letters per month.

Top photos via Lianhe Zaobao & Ministry of Home Affairs