Madam Speaker, I am informed by the Commissioner of Prisons that all detainees are systematically searched upon their return from Court. From 01 January 2023 to 23 April 2026, 48 cases have been reported where prohibited items were found to be in the possession of detainees returning from Court. With regard to part (a) of the question, out of the 48 cases, 35 cases concerning prohibited items such as dangerous drugs, mobile phones, or SIM cards have been reported to the Police for investigation as they are suspected to be linked to criminal offences. As regards the remaining 13 cases, involving prohibited items such as cigarettes, lighters and flintstones, disciplinary actions have been taken against the detainees at the level of the Prisons Department. Such actions relate to confinement in a separate cell, forfeiture of privileges or earnings and loss of remission. Madam Speaker, in regard to part (b) of the question, I am informed by the Commissioner of Police that out of the 35 reported cases, three cases have been filed and one detainee has been charged with the offence of Possession of Heroin with aggravating circumstances under sections 34 and 41 of the Dangerous Drugs Act. Police enquiry is ongoing in the remaining cases.

Thank you. Yes, Dr. Prayag, are you okay? Now, we have the hon. Third Member for Port Louis South & Port Louis Central! PUBLIC BODIES – ALLEGED CORRUPTIVE PRACTICES – INQUIRIES