JAKARTA - In a significant move to address severe overcrowding, the Lubuk Sikaping Detention Center in West Sumatra has transferred seven inmates, from the category II B facility, to Badang Prison, categorized as II A. The transfer occurred on Thursday, March 20, 2025, and was confirmed by the head of the Lubuk Sikaping Detention Center, Risman Hanafie, who stated this action was essential to manage the overpopulation issue at the facility.
Risman explained, "The transfer of seven Rutan Lubuk Sikaping inmates was conducted to reduce the number of Proper Correctional Inmates (WBP) who have exceeded the capacity limits set for our facility." Currently, the Lubuk Sikaping facility is designed to accommodate only 113 inmates but is housing 146, thus exceeding its capacity by 33 inmates.
This operational decision was grounded in a formal document issued by the Regional Office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights in West Sumatra. The letter, numbered WP.3. PK.03.02-38 and dated March 17, 2025, outlined the approval for the transfer based on assessed needs of the correctional system.
"The seven prisoners being transferred were involved in narcotics cases and are facing severe sentences, with two of them receiving life imprisonment," Risman added, illustrating the nature of the inmates being moved. The initiative is part of a broader effort to accelerate the Ministry's program aimed at resolving overcapacity challenges in correctional facilities.
Risman emphasized the organized and controlled nature of the transfer, stating, "WBP has been transferred under the supervision of uniformed officers. This is also supported by personnel from the Polres to maintain security and ensure the smoothness of the WBP transfer." These measures were critical for maintaining safety throughout the process.
The transfer is viewed as a proactive step amid ongoing debates surrounding the conditions and capacity of Indonesia's correctional facilities, which have been criticized for being overcrowded and under-resourced. Local officials and prison advocates have long pushed for reforms to effectively manage inmate populations and improve living conditions, as overcrowding can exacerbate issues such as violence and health risks within prisons.
The Lubuk Sikaping Detention Center's situation is a reflection of a broader challenge faced by correctional institutions across Indonesia. As the government grapples with rising inmate numbers, balancing human rights and public safety remains a delicate task. The measures taken during this recent transfer signal administrative recognition of the pressing need for reform in the penal system.
