The Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) has rejected claims circulating on social media that there are 1,440 HIV-positive inmates across Fiji’s correctional facilities, saying the figure is false.
FCS says the actual number of active HIV cases across its 15 correctional institutions is 206, with prevalence currently recorded at 9.3 per cent.
The service says records show 151 cases in 2024 and 173 cases in 2025, with prevalence rates of 6.7 per cent and 7.8 per cent respectively.
FCS says the 1,440 figure is based on an unverified 60 per cent prevalence rate previously cited by former Commissioner Dr Jalesi Nakarawa, which was subsequently corrected by the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
The service says three inmates have died from AIDS-related complications over the past four years—one in 2023 and two in 2025.
FCS also highlighted the number of cases among female inmates, saying 17 active cases are recorded. However, it says most involve women currently on remand.
Among convicted female inmates, five of the 60 inmates—30 each at Lautoka and Suva—are HIV-positive, representing an eight per cent prevalence rate.
FCS says comprehensive screening will begin this week at the Suva Corrections facility, with updated baseline data expected by the end of September.
It is also working to introduce mandatory HIV testing for all newly admitted inmates, subject to legal review.
The service says the rising number of cases remains a serious concern but warned that inflated figures undermine the work of corrections officers caring for affected inmates.
FCS has urged the public and media to rely on official information from the Corrections Service, Ministry of Justice or MOHMS.
