Prison visits have been temporarily suspended in Tajikistan due to coronavirus concerns.

“For the purpose of preventing the spread of a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in penitentiary institutions, short-term and long-term prison visits have been temporarily suspended in Tajikistan,” Mansourjon Umarov, the head of the Main Penitentiary Directorate of the Ministry of Justice, told Asia-Plus in an interview.  

“Tajikistan has not reported any confirmed coronavirus cases yet.  However, following president’s order the Ministry of Justice has developed a plan and special measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus in prisons.  The penitentiary institutions have implemented these measures since March 31,” Umarov said.  

According to him, face masks have been distributed among prison inmates and guards.  “Everyone who enters the penitentiary institutions treats hands with special antiseptic agents.  We have also purchased thermometers and distributed them to all penitentiary institutions,” the head of the Main Penitentiary Directorate noted.

He further added that special units for quarantine had been established at each pre-trial detention center, “where any detainees are being held for 14 days.”

Besides, explanatory work is reportedly being carried out among prison inmates.