Training to improve Prison Services

10/03/2010

Commissioner of Prisons, Brigadier General Iowane Naivalurua wants all prison wardens to get black belts in Hapakido- a martial arts technique currently taught to  officers in the discipline force in the country.

According to the Prisons Department Principal Prison Officer (PPO) Fred Elbourne since the Department looks after law breakers it is essential for prison wardens to be well equipped with such training which will eventually assist them to perform their duties better.

This comes after 78 discipline forces including members of the Fiji Police Force and the Fiji Prisons Department underwent six-month intensive hapakido training with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces counterparts.

“ We are very grateful to the RFMF for considering the other discipline forces for this training following the graduation of 11 prison officers,” Elbourne said.

The officers were given black belts and a certificate, which is recognized around the globe.

He said the Brigadier General Naivalurua has made it compulsory for all prison officers to acquire this training as it encourages a lot of discipline and dedication.

Out of the 78 officers accredited for training 11 were prison officers, 9 were from the Fiji Police Force and 58 were from the military including the Fiji Navy.

As part of the training the officers ran a distance of 8-10 kilometers daily, perform 100 fingertip press ups, know up to 10 individual technique and combination techniques.

Meanwhile the next training is scheduled for April 6 and this time trainees will consist of women officers as well.