A fire broke out in Bilice prison in Split after inmates set fire to a mattress in an attempt to get rid of bedbugs, which have become a serious problem in the prison. Five inmates are in critical condition and hospitalized, while seven remain under further treatment. The Union of State and Local Officials warns that this incident is not isolated but a symptom of a deep crisis in the prison system, including staff shortages, employee overload, and lack of clear security protocols. The union demands urgent reforms and the adoption of a special law for employees in penal institutions to improve working conditions and safety in prisons.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets emphasize the systemic issues in the prison system highlighted by the fire, focusing on the poor working conditions, staff shortages, and the need for comprehensive reforms to protect both inmates and prison staff. They highlight the union’s calls for better labor rights and safety protocols.
Center: Center-leaning sources report the facts of the fire incident, the health status of the inmates, and the immediate response by emergency services. They also mention the union’s statements but maintain a neutral tone, focusing on the event and its consequences without strong political framing.
Right: Right-leaning media may focus on the responsibility of the inmates for causing the fire by setting the mattress on fire, emphasizing law and order. They might also highlight the challenges faced by prison staff but with less emphasis on systemic reforms, possibly framing the incident as a consequence of inmate behavior.
