GOVERNMENT OF SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS INTRODUCES STIFFER PENALTIES TO ENHANCE PRISON SECURITY

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, May 15, 2025 (SKNIS) – The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has taken bold legislative action to bolster citizen security with the passage of the Prison (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the National Assembly on  Thursday, May 15. The updated legislation introduces significantly tougher penalties for individuals found attempting to smuggle contraband into His Majesty’s Prison.

The Bill was presented by Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, and represents a vital modernisation of the decades-old Prison Act, aligning it with present-day security threats and technological realities.

The Prison Act is amended to increase fines for smuggling contraband into the prison from EC$1,000 to EC$50,000, and increase the maximum prison sentence for such offences from six months to ten years. The Prison (Amendment) Bill, 2025, also expanded the list of prohibited items to include mobile phones, SIM cards, knives, and drugs.

These strengthened measures aim to deter illegal activities within and around the prison, while reinforcing the government’s commitment to law, order, and public safety.

Prime Minister Dr. Drew emphasised the importance of the amendments, stating, “A safe prison is part of our overall citizen security agenda.” He underscored the government’s commitment to maintaining order and safeguarding all citizens, both inside and outside the prison system.

“These changes will make our prison safer, and they will help to stop any nefarious activities behind bars,” Dr. Drew said. “The only activities we want behind bars, Madame Speaker, are activities of rehabilitation that could increase the possibility of their successful reintegration into our society.”

The prime minister further assured that the government remains committed to introducing additional progressive rehabilitative programmes. He highlighted the ELEVATE Programme as a key platform that will be used to reach and support as many inmates as possible in their personal development and reintegration journey.

The Prison (Amendment) Bill, 2025, marks a significant step in the government’s broader efforts to modernise the justice system and ensure a safer, more secure Saint Kitts and Nevis.

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