Common offences which result in punishment in prison are "insubordination", talking back to prison officials, fighting, losing items, tattooing, sexual activities etc. Offences in prison are usually classified as either minor, or aggravated offences.
Punishments can range from denial of privileges (such as yard time and day room, and denial of visits from families), to more serious ones such as lengthening of sentences, corporal punishment in the form of caning and solitary confinement in the punishment cell.
When an offence has been committed, you will receive what is known as a "thumbprint". If a prisoner receives 3 thumbprints, they will be subjected to disciplinary proceedings and punishment. What usually happens upon receiving 3 thumbprints is that you will appear before a panel of senior prison officials where questions will be asked of you. Punishment will be decided by them. You will have no access to lawyers and there is no appeal process if you are unhappy with the punishment.
Punishment cell
A prisoner can be ordered to solitary confinement by the prison authorities. This can happen for aggravated offences. You can be put in a punishment cell for weeks, or even months, depending on the severity of the offence committed in prison.
In the punishment cell, we understand that the lights are on throughout your time inside, you will be fed a liquid diet and water is rationed for 10 minutes each day only. The inmate has to ensure they get all the water they need for the day during this period.
Inmates who are placed in solitary confinement have no access to books (except one religious book), communication with their families or friends, or any other privileges, including yard time and day room.