The police and the Director of Public Prosecutions have been criticized for failing to investigate fully and prosecute cases of abuse. In November 1997, the authorities forced the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner of police to retire, as a result of recommendations by a Commission of Inquiry that investigated allegations of mismanagement, corruption, and police brutality. Under new leadership, the police created an Internal Affairs Department in December 1997 to investigate public complaints against the police and to provide counseling to police. In July a consultant from the United Kingdom conducted a 3-month study to update antiquated police regulations and to establish new operational guidelines for the police. This report was submitted to the Government and was under discussion and review at year's end.
Prison conditions are poor.
Overcrowding and unsanitary conditions continue to be problems in the sole prison facility. There are about 270 prisoners. The prison provides work therapy, sports programs, educational opportunities, and counseling for inmates. The Government permits prison visits by independent human rights monitors. The Constitution requires that the authorities charge persons with a crime within 24 hours after arrest.