Forty-two recruits have officially joined His Majesty’s Prison following the institution’s first graduation ceremony in nearly a decade.

The officers completed nine weeks of intensive training in law, weapon handling and conflict management before being formally inducted at the Multipurpose Cultural Centre on Monday.

Public Safety Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin praised their readiness, saying he was confident the new cohort would strengthen prison security and national safety. He also announced plans to amend the Prison Act before the end of the year.

Officials said the additional staff would bolster rehabilitation programmes at the Coronation Road facility and help reduce reoffending.