Six operatives of the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) have been dismissed following an internal investigation that uncovered an alleged network of staff supplying mobile phones and other prohibited services to suspects in the agency’s custody, according to sources cited by 3News.
The disciplinary action followed a security breach on February 16, 2026, when an officer conducting routine checks in the suspects’ cells reportedly found one of them making a phone call.
The discovery triggered an investigation that uncovered several prohibited items in two holding facilities, including mobile phones, phone accessories and a screwdriver considered a potential security threat. According to 3News sources, at least six mobile phones were recovered.
Investigators subsequently found the phone number of a BNI operative written on the back of a playing card used by suspects for recreation. The discovery prompted further inquiries into how the officer’s number had ended up in the facility.
The investigation allegedly uncovered an internal collaborator who had been supplying mobile phones and other prohibited services to suspects in exchange for money. Sources described the arrangement as an organised operation involving compromised staff.
Investigators also found that suspects, with the assistance of staff, had arranged for relatives to deliver restaurant meals outside established BNI procedures. Mobile phones and accessories were allegedly concealed in the food packages.
Eight operatives were investigated and subjected to internal disciplinary proceedings. After the process was completed, six were dismissed, one was demoted and another was exonerated.
A source told 3News that the agency had since tightened its internal controls to prevent similar breaches.
The source added that further measures were underway to enforce discipline and ensure compliance with the agency’s rules and regulations, including polygraph tests for staff and other internal security procedures.
By:Rachael Djabakie