There were no reports of politically motivated disappearances. The Constitution specifically prohibits torture, and there were no reports of such abuse. However, many criminal convictions in recent years have been based on confessions, which may reflect an effort by police to force confessions rather than use investigative approaches. Poor prison conditions stem from a lack of resources. The island's only prison, built in the 1800's to house a maximum of 101 prisoners, has over 400 prisoners, resulting in severe overcrowding.
Prison guards are generally well-trained.
The Government permits prison visits by human rights monitors. The Government adheres to the constitutional provisions prohibiting arbitrary arrest or imprisonment and requiring a court hearing within 72 hours after detention. There were no reports of forced exile. The Constitution provides for an independent judiciary, and it is independent in practice. Both levels have civil and criminal authority.