RESIDENTS might see some new prisoner transport vehicles doing the rounds between Hopkins Correctional Centre and other prisons.
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Corrections Victoria has acquired two new custom-built vehicles specifically designed to transport the state's highest security risk prisoners safely.
While the majority of those prisoners will come from maximum security facilities such as Melbourne Assessment Prison, the Metropolitan Remand Centre and Barwon Prison, the vehicles will be used on an as-needed basis and so may also be used at Hopkins or Langi Kal Kal.
The vehicles are fitted with ballistic armour, a touch-screen system enabling security and emergency officers to control all aspects of the vehicle, including locking mechanisms and CCTV cameras.
They are a step-up from the previous maximum security vehicles, which were re-purposed versions of the regular transport vans.
The vehicles will be able to transport up to four prisoners at a time and Corrections Victoria says it is expected the vehicles will make just under 50 trips a month.
Corrections Victoria provided vehicle manufacturer Volvo with specifications during the design phase, and the vehicles were manufactured in Australia.
Corrections Victoria assistant commissioner Melissa Westin said the vehicles would help ensure officer safety.
"These new vehicles include the latest technology, making sure they're fit-for-purpose to get the job done, while keeping our Security Emergency Services Group officers safe," she said.
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