A study to build more sections for nonsmoking women in prisons is under way. Jeddah would get priority, as its number of women prisoners is the highest, said assistant media spokesman of the Directorate General of Prisons, Capt. Abdullah Al-Harbi.
He said that the directorate separates inmates according to their charges. There are 23 sections and 77 rooms, with 3,425 inmates occupying these throughout the Kingdom. “Building these sections has a positive impact on inmates,” said Al-Harbi, “It motivates them to make further efforts so that they can qualify for joining these sections. This contributes to their psychological and social rehabilitation.”
Al-Harbi pointed out that the first sections for nonsmokers were built in Riyadh’s Malaz prison 16 years ago. It had a great impact on smokers and nonsmokers, as well as developing awareness programs on the effects of smoking.
Benefits of nonsmoking sections are availability of a communication cabin, payment of financial incentives and privileged visiting hours. Among the criteria that qualify a person to move to the new sections are praying in groups, attending lectures and awareness activities, leaving the section only with authorized permits, compliance with Shariah judgments and not disturbing other inmates.
More jails to have female nonsmoking sections
