Heatwave: Prison directorates deny deteriorating inmate health and assure visits continue

Tunisia's General Directorate of Prisons and Rehabilitation (CGPR) has refuted claims of deteriorating inmate health and restrictions on visits amid an exceptional heatwave. The directorate stated that all necessary measures have been implemented within correctional facilities to cope with the high temperatures.

In a statement, the CGPR detailed that provisions include enhanced living conditions and strengthened health support for detainees. The organization explicitly denied rumors suggesting a decline in the health of some inmates or any prohibition of visits from relatives and lawyers. It affirmed that all incarcerated individuals receive medical monitoring in line with current regulations, provided by the institutions' medical and paramedical teams.

The CGPR further clarified that inmates requiring specialized care are transferred to public hospital emergency services when their condition necessitates it. The directorate also emphasized that visits from families and lawyers continue to take place in accordance with legal procedures and existing regulations, ensuring continuity of contact and legal representation.