Prisons Deploy AI to Upgrade Security

The Directorate of Prisons implemented artificial intelligence (AI) technology and advanced digital tools to modernize prison infrastructure and security. Inspector General of Forests/Prisons Brigadier General Syed Md. Motaher Hossain disclosed these details during a press conference on Tuesday afternoon (18 August) at the Prison Directorate in Bakshibazar, Dhaka.

Speaking at the conference, Inspector General Brigadier General Syed Md. Motaher Hossain stated, "Since assuming charge of the prison department in August 2024, multiple initiatives were launched to transform prison management into a modern, humane, transparent, tech-driven, and accountable institution. As part of this, AI-powered CCTV cameras, body cameras, body scanners, luggage scanners, mobile detectors, ground sweeping machines, and mobile jammers are now operational. Nationwide prisons are connected via our own fiber network, while digital attendance and team trackers actively monitor staff operational presence."

Highlighting digitized inmate management, he added, "We enriched the Comprehensive Prisoner Database for data-driven inmate management. Phone calls and meeting procedures are digitized with AI surveillance integration. Inmates can now attend judicial trials from prison via virtual courts. Furthermore, video call facilities, sports, cultural events, religious teaching, and psychological counseling have been launched to ease family connections and rehabilitation."

Regarding strict discipline and healthcare, Brigadier General Syed Md. Motaher Hossain asserted, "A zero-tolerance policy against drugs is enforced where no inmate or staff member is above the law. Drug testing machines are installed at headquarters. To ensure quality healthcare, steps are taken to construct a Central Prison Hospital in Keraniganj, set up pathology labs, deploy 55 diploma nurses, and incorporate 77 ambulances."

Outlining systemic legal reforms, he revealed, "To make the core vision correction-oriented, steps are underway to rename Bangladesh Jail as 'Custodial and Correction Service Bangladesh'. Additionally, the draft for 'Custodial and Correction Service Act-2025' has been submitted for official approval."                                                                                                                      //DBTech/JNO/MIS//