Watchdog uncovers alleged bribery, abuse of power involving prison guards

The Commission Against Corruption (CCAC) has uncovered suspected corruption involving two prison guards linked to the smuggling of contraband into a local correctional facility.

The case involves a serving officer from the Correctional Services Bureau (DSC) and another officer who has since retired.

According to the watchdog, the serving prison guard is suspected of committing passive bribery by using his position to help an inmate smuggle prohibited items into the prison. Investigators believe the officer intended to later pass the contraband to the inmate for resale within the facility, allowing the inmate to profit from the illegal goods.

The CCAC said the guard allegedly received at least MOP17,000 as payment for his assistance. The money was reportedly transferred through the inmate’s spouse.

During the investigation, authorities also found that the same officer had committed two speeding offences and allegedly arranged for a relative and a friend to take responsibility for the violations in an attempt to avoid penalties.

Separately, a prison guard who has since retired is suspected of abusing his authority while still in service. Investigators believe he assisted another inmate in smuggling contraband into the prison and helped the inmate privately exchange messages with family members on multiple occasions.

The serving guard is suspected of committing the crimes of passive bribery to perform illicit acts and document forgery under the Penal Code of Macau.

The inmate and his spouse are suspected of active bribery, while the relative and friend who allegedly took the blame for the traffic offences may also face document forgery charges.

The cases have been referred to the Public Prosecutions Office.

Meanwhile, the DSC said it attaches “great importance” to the incident and “expressed deep regret” that prison guards allegedly broke the law and violated their duties. The bureau added that it will fully cooperate with judicial authorities in the criminal investigation.

According to the DSC, it was notified by the primary court in October 2025 that the serving prison guard involved was suspected of committing the crime of bribery to perform illicit acts. The officer was subsequently suspended from duty as a compulsory measure.

After receiving a notification from the watchdog earlier this month, the bureau said it immediately launched disciplinary proceedings against the personnel involved and will conduct a thorough investigation in accordance with the law. It added that if any illegal or disciplinary violations are confirmed, strict punishment will be imposed without leniency.