Guidance

Information pack for British nationals arrested or detained in Equatorial Guinea

Updated 3 November 2025

Chapter 1: Key points

Overview

If you are a British national, and are arrested or detained in another country, consular staff will do what they can to help you. However, we cannot interfere with the local justice system, get you out of jail, or pay for services such as a lawyer.  Information about who we can help, including the circumstances in which we can assist dual nationals, is available at: Support for British nationals abroad. You can also request a paper copy from consular staff.         

This information pack aims to give you, and your family and friends, information about the local system in Equatorial Guinea and who can help. Consular staff can provide a printed copy to those in prison or in custody. We welcome feedback to help us improve the information we can provide to others.

Contacting us

If you are arrested or detained in another country:

• the authorities should ask whether you want them to contact the British Embassy or consulate (and must do so if you want them to)
• if they do not ask, you can make the request yourself. You should do this if you are charged with a serious offence or need any kind of assistance
• friends or family can also contact the local British Embassy or consulate or the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in London on +44 (0)20 7008 5000

In some countries, the authorities might notify the British Embassy or consulate even if you do not want anyone to know that you have been arrested. This is because there may be an agreement in place with the British government which requires a mandatory notification to be made. 

Who we are

Consular staff work in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office in the UK, and in British embassies, high commissions and consulates overseas.

The British High Commission in Cameroon has consular responsibility for Equatorial Guinea. There isn’t a UK Embassy in Malabo, but our consular team can assist from the embassy in Yaounde - Cameroon.

The British High Commission in Cameroon’s details below:

Contact Details:

British High Commission

Avenue Winston Churchill,

P.O Box 547, Yaounde.

Tel: +44 207 008 3355

Email: Bhc.Yaounde@fcdo.gov.uk.

Consular Yaounde Enquiries consularyaoundeenquiries@fcdo.gov.uk

Website: www.gov.uk/government/world/cameroon/

You can also contact us by phone 24/7 for help or advice from anywhere in the world by calling the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office on +44 (0)20 7008 5000.

What we can do

The FCDO can offer you impartial and non-judgemental help. When we are notified of your arrest or detention, we will aim to contact you as soon as possible, so that we can assess how we can help you. We then aim to provide assistance according to your individual circumstances and local conditions. Our priority is to provide assistance to those British nationals overseas that need our help the most.

In Equatorial Guinea, the consular service may be informed after a certain number of days which is not fixed.

Once we are notified, we aim to contact you as soon as possible.

We can also:

• provide a list of local English-speaking lawyers and interpreters.  Find a professional service abroad

• provide general information about the country, detention conditions, and the local legal system: Find a professional service abroad - Find a lawyer abroad

• provide general information about the local prison or remand system, including visiting arrangements, mail and censorship, privileges, and welfare services

• keep in regular contact with you, either by visiting or by telephone/letter. The frequency of contact will depend on local conditions and your personal circumstances

• tell the police or prison doctor, with your permission, about any medical or dental problems including medication

• put you, or your family, in touch with a prisoners’ welfare charity called Prisoners Abroad

• in some circumstances we may be able to help take up complaints with the police or prison authorities about ill treatment, personal safety, or discrimination, if you are not treated in line with internationally recognised standards

• help to transfer money to you from your friends or family. In places where phone or postal services are not available we can also try to pass on messages and deliver letters to the prison (but generally we cannot arrange for delivery directly to you)

• in some circumstances we may be able to help you apply for a transfer to a prison in the UK

What we cannot do

• get you out of prison or detention
• help you get special treatment because you are British
• offer legal advice, start legal proceedings or investigate a crime
• pay for any costs because you have been arrested
• forward you packages sent by friends or family
• prevent authorities from deporting you after release

First steps

Informing family members

If you want us to, we can tell your family or friends that you have been detained and provide them with information about how to contact you. With your consent, we can also keep them updated on your wellbeing. 

If you are not sure about informing your family, we can help you consider what the impact of not doing so might be. For example, it may cause them distress if they do not know where you are, or cannot contact you. It can also be a disadvantage to you if you need someone to send you money or act on your behalf while you are detained.

Informing the UK police

If you are accused of certain serious offences, such as sexual assault or drugs trafficking, we are obliged to share information about your arrest with UK police. Information about this may appear if a Criminal Records Bureau check were carried out by a prospective employer. There may be other circumstances when information about you may need to be shared with authorities in Equatorial Guinea.

Legal assistance: lawyers

We cannot give legal advice, start legal proceedings, or investigate a crime. However, we can provide information about the local legal system, including whether a legal aid scheme is available. We can also give you a list of local interpreters and a list of local English-speaking: Find a professional service abroad - Find a lawyer abroad and Find a professional service abroad. You should consider the benefits of local legal representation and discuss all the costs beforehand with the legal representative. We cannot pay your legal or interpretation costs in any circumstance.

Consular assistance: fair treatment

We cannot get you out of prison or detention or get you special treatment because you are British. If you are not treated in line with internationally accepted standards, we will consider whether to approach the local authorities. This may include if your trial does not follow internationally recognised standards or is unreasonably delayed compared to local cases.

Other organisations that can provide assistance

We can put you, or your family, in touch with Prisoners Abroad, a UK charity which supports British citizens detained overseas and their families.

Chapter 2: Detention conditions in Equatorial Guinea

Visits: friends and family

Who can visit and how to arrange visits

You should consult FCDO travel advice before you travel to Equatorial Guinea for the latest information on safety and security, entry requirements and travel warnings.

In Equatorial Guinea, prison visits are legally permitted but subject to strict regulations. Typically, only close family members, accredited lawyers, consular representatives for foreign nationals, and certain approved acquaintances are allowed to visit detainees. However, the authorisation for such visits depends on several factors, including the legal status of the prisoner, the nature of the offense, security considerations, and the background of the visitor.

To arrange a visit, a formal written request must be submitted to the Ministry of Justice or the prison administration. This request should include the visitor’s personal details, their relationship to the prisoner, the reason for the visit, and the proposed date. The authorities then review the request, which may involve security checks. In some cases, the prisoner must initiate the request for a visit.

Foreign nationals are advised to seek assistance from their embassy or consulate, which can help facilitate the process. Once approved, visits are conducted under strict conditions: they are usually limited in duration (between 30 and 60 minutes), electronic devices are prohibited, and the visit may be monitored by prison staff.

It is important to note that some prisoners, particularly those held for political reasons, may be kept in isolation and denied visitation rights. In such cases, access may be refused without explanation, and legal transparency can be limited.

What to expect when you visit

When visiting a prisoner in Equatorial Guinea, expect a tightly controlled and formal process. Visits must be authorized in advance, often requiring a written request and approval from prison authorities. Once inside, you’ll be subject to security checks, and personal items like phones or bags are not allowed. Visits are usually short; between 30 and 60 minutes; and are monitored by staff. The environment can be harsh, and access may be denied without explanation, especially for political detainees. It’s best to coordinate with legal counsel or your consulate if you’re a foreign national.

What you can take on your visit

When visiting a prisoner in Equatorial Guinea, you are generally not allowed to bring personal items into the prison. Strict security measures are in place, and most belongings must be left outside the visiting area. Here’s what you can expect:

• you may carry a valid photo ID and car keys.

• phones, bags, food, and electronic devices are strictly prohibited.

• home prisons may allow a small amount of cash (e.g., for vending machines), but this is rare and must be confirmed in advance.

• legal documents or photos may be permitted in limited cases, but only with prior approval and inspection.

• medical devices (e.g., glasses, mobility aids) may be allowed if medically necessary and declared beforehand.

All visitors are subject to searches, and any attempt to bring in unauthorized items can result in denial of entry or legal consequences

Visits: consular staff

We will visit you during our routine visits; you will have the opportunity to discuss any health issues, security concerns, your treatment in prison and any other general issues that you wish to raise with our Honorary Consul in Malabo or Consular staff from the British Embassy in Yaounde. If there is any information that you would prefer us not to disclose to your Next of Kin you should let us know during these visits.

Emergency trips outside of prison

Generally, this is not allowed in Equatorial Guinea.

Police custody and initial arrival at prison

Arriving at the police station: your basic rights

When a person is taken to a police station in Equatorial Guinea, their basic rights as a prisoner are recognized in law but often not respected in practice. Legally, a detainee has the right to be informed of the reason for their arrest and the charges against them in a language they understand. They also have the right to contact a person of their choice and, if they are a foreign national, to request that their embassy or consulate be notified.

In theory, detainees should be treated with dignity and protected from torture or inhumane treatment. They are entitled to legal representation and a fair trial. However, human rights reports consistently document arbitrary arrests, denial of legal counsel, and cases of torture or degrading treatment in police custody.

Therefore, while basic rights exist on paper, in practice, detainees in Equatorial Guinea may face serious violations. It is crucial for foreign nationals to insist on consular contact and legal assistance as early as possible.

Appearing at court

When a prisoner appears in court in Equatorial Guinea, the process is governed by the country’s Penal Code, which outlines basic legal guarantees. In theory, the prisoner has the right to legal representation, the presumption of innocence, and the ability to appeal a judgment. They should also be informed of the charges against them and allowed to communicate with their lawyer and family.

However, in practice, due process is often not respected. Human rights organizations report frequent arbitrary arrests, lack of access to legal counsel, and trials that lack transparency. Political prisoners may be tried in military courts rather than civilian ones, and some detainees are held for long periods without formal charges.

Court appearances may be brief and heavily controlled, with limited opportunity for the prisoner to speak or defend themselves. Foreign nationals are advised to seek consular support, as embassies can help monitor the legal process and advocate for fair treatment.

Initial arrival at the prison

When a prisoner first arrives at a prison in Equatorial Guinea, the experience is often harsh and lacks transparency. Unlike in systems with standardized intake procedures, the process in Equatorial Guinea is marked by limited legal safeguards, poor conditions, and restricted communication.

Upon arrival, prisoners are typically not given clear information about their rights or the duration of their detention. Many are held incommunicado, meaning they cannot contact family, lawyers, or consular representatives. In notorious facilities like Black Beach Prison, new arrivals may face overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and lack of medical care. Torture and abuse have been reported, especially for political detainees or those accused of serious offenses.

There is no formal orientation or intake process that ensures the prisoner understands the rules, receives basic supplies, or is assessed for health needs. Instead, detainees are often placed directly into cells with minimal support, and their belongings are confiscated without clear documentation.

In summary, the initial arrival at prison in Equatorial Guinea can be confusing, isolating, and dangerous, with few protections for the prisoner unless consular or legal intervention is secured.

Prison: conditions and daily life

Prison conditions and daily life for prisoners in Equatorial Guinea are extremely harsh and often violate international human rights standards.

Upon arrival, prisoners are typically placed in overcrowded and unsanitary facilities such as Black Beach Prison in Malabo, known for its extreme humidity, poor ventilation, and lack of basic hygiene. Many detainees are held incommunicado, without access to lawyers or family, and some are imprisoned for years without formal charges or trial.

Daily life in prison is marked by:

• overcrowding and lack of privacy
• insufficient food and water
• limited or no access to medical care
• physical abuse and torture, especially for political prisoners
• no structured activities or rehabilitation programs
• restricted communication with the outside world

The environment is described as life-threatening, with detainees living in fear and isolation. International observers and human rights organizations have repeatedly condemned these conditions.

Accommodation

Accommodation for prisoners in Equatorial Guinea is widely reported to be inhumane and life-threatening, especially in notorious facilities like Black Beach Prison in Malabo.

Upon arrival, prisoners are often placed in overcrowded cells with poor ventilation and extreme humidity due to the prison’s coastal location. There is no formal intake process, and detainees may not receive basic supplies such as bedding, clothing, or hygiene products. Many are held incommunicado, without access to family, lawyers, or consular support.

The physical conditions include:

• lack of clean water and sanitation
• insufficient food and medical care
• no privacy or personal space
• exposure to abuse and torture
• no structured daily routine or rehabilitation programs

Food and diet

Food and diet for prisoners in Equatorial Guinea are reported to be severely inadequate and dangerous to health.

In facilities like Black Beach Prison, prisoners often rely on family members to bring food, as the prison itself provides minimal and irregular rations. During crackdowns, even this external support is blocked, and prisoners may go days without food. At times, the official ration has been reduced to one or two bread rolls per day, and even that is not consistently provided.

Foreign nationals and political detainees, especially those without family nearby, are at high risk of starvation. The lack of nutrition is compounded by poor medical care, leading to malnutrition, weakness, and worsening of chronic illnesses.

In summary, the prison diet in Equatorial Guinea is not sufficient to sustain health, and conditions have been described by human rights organizations as cruel, inhuman, and degrading.

Hygiene

Hygiene conditions in prisons in Equatorial Guinea are extremely poor and pose serious health risks to detainees.

Prison facilities, especially Black Beach Prison, are described as unsanitary and overcrowded, with inadequate access to clean water, proper sanitation, and basic hygiene supplies. Many prisoners lack access to showers, soap, clean clothing, and functioning toilets. The environment is often infested with insects such as cockroaches, lice, and bedbugs, which thrive due to the lack of regular cleaning and ventilation.

There is no consistent system for personal hygiene, and prisoners are rarely provided with essentials like toothbrushes, sanitary pads, or laundry services. The absence of hygiene education and regular inspections increases the risk of communicable diseases, including skin infections, diarrheal illnesses, and respiratory problems.

In summary, hygiene in Equatorial Guinea’s prisons is neglected, contributing to the overall harsh and life-threatening conditions reported by international human rights organizations.

Work and study

In Equatorial Guinea, access to work and education for prisoners is extremely limited and largely non-existent in practice, despite international standards encouraging rehabilitation.

Similarly, prison labour or work programs are not systematically implemented. There are no known initiatives that allow prisoners to engage in productive work, earn wages, or develop skills for reintegration. The absence of such programs contributes to the lack of rehabilitation and high risk of recidivism.

In summary, prisoners in Equatorial Guinea do not have meaningful access to education or work, and the prison system remains focused on punishment rather than rehabilitation. International bodies continue to advocate for reform, but implementation remains slow and inconsistent.

Contact and languages

In Equatorial Guinea, prisoners face significant challenges regarding contact and language access, especially during detention.

Prisoners often have limited or no access to communication with family, lawyers, or consular representatives. Many detainees are held incommunicado, meaning they are completely cut off from outside contact for extended periods. This is particularly common in high-security prisons like Black Beach, where families may not even know if their loved ones are alive.

Foreign nationals are legally entitled to consular notification, but in practice, this right is frequently ignored or delayed. Legal visits and phone calls are rare and tightly controlled.

Equatorial Guinea is officially Spanish-speaking, but French and Portuguese are also used in some administrative contexts. However, many prisoners come from diverse linguistic backgrounds, and language barriers are a serious issue.

There are no formal interpretation services in most prisons. Prison staff are not trained in multilingual communication, and prisoners who do not speak Spanish may struggle to understand rules, legal procedures, or medical instructions. This lack of language support can lead to misunderstandings, isolation, and denial of rights

In summary, prisoners in Equatorial Guinea often face isolation and communication barriers, with little access to language support or external contact, especially in politically sensitive cases.

There is the possibility to request local language materials through the post from Prisoners Abroad (including language textbooks and dictionaries). You can request local language materials through the post from Prisoners Abroad (including language textbooks and dictionaries).

Exercise

In Equatorial Guinea, prisoners generally do not have structured access to sports or exercise, and opportunities for physical activity are extremely limited.

There are no formal programs promoting physical fitness or recreational sports in most prisons, including Black Beach Prison, which is known for its harsh and overcrowded conditions. Prisoners are often confined to small, poorly ventilated cells with little or no access to outdoor space. As a result, daily exercise is not guaranteed, and many detainees suffer from physical and mental health deterioration due to inactivity.

Exercise and sport are not part of daily life for most prisoners in Equatorial Guinea, and access depends heavily on the prison’s conditions and the individual’s status.

Climate

Equatorial Guinea has two main seasons: the dry season (from December to April) and the rainy season (from May to November). Depending on your location within the country, this may vary slightly. Providing appropriate clothing for colder periods is the responsibility of the inmate

Religion

You have the right to practice the religion of your choice. Detention facilities are often staffed by religious ministers, and the registrar maintains a list of religious authorities who may be authorized to perform religious rites within the prison.

Rules and regulations (including drugs)

Prisoners in Equatorial Guinea are subject to strict rules of conduct, though these rules are not always clearly communicated or consistently enforced. Discipline is often harsh, and violations can lead to solitary confinement or physical punishment. Drug possession and use are strictly prohibited, and those found with illegal substances face severe penalties, including long prison sentences. There are no known rehabilitation programs for drug users within the prison system. Legal protections are limited, and oversight of prison conditions is weak, with complaints rarely investigated.

Prison: access to help and services

Receiving money

There are 2 ways you may be able to receive financial assistance while in prison:

• private funds: deposited to you by your family or friends.

• prisoners Abroad: depending on where you are detained, if your family cannot support you financially, Prisoners Abroad may be able to send you a small grant every quarter for essentials (enough for one hot meal a day).

The UK government does not provide financial assistance to prisoners.

Private funds

While the FCDO does not provide financial assistance to prisoners, we may be able, within certain limits, to send you money from your family or friends.

The FCDO operates a ‘Prison Comfort’ system for money transfers to prisoners. Ask your family or friends to get in touch with the FCDO to arrange this.

We cannot receive payment by credit or debit card, or by cash.

Prisoners Abroad

Prisoners Abroad may be able to assist you with funding for prison essentials and some medical care if you are not receiving regular donations from other sources.

Medical and Dental treatment

Medical and dental treatment for prisoners in Equatorial Guinea is severely limited and often inadequate, with serious consequences for detainees’ health.

Upon arrival in prison, detainees typically do not receive proper medical screening, and access to healthcare is minimal. Many prisoners suffer from untreated illnesses, and reports from human rights organizations have documented cases of death in detention due to lack of medical care, especially in facilities like Evinayong and Black Beach Prison

There is no consistent access to dental care, and oral health among prisoners is significantly worse than in the general population. Conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections are common, and there are no structured programs to address these issues.

Letters and parcels

Prisoners in Equatorial Guinea have very limited access to sending or receiving letters and parcels. While correspondence may be permitted in theory, in practice it is often restricted, delayed, or censored by prison authorities. Many detainees are held incommunicado, meaning they are completely cut off from outside contact. Parcels, such as food or hygiene items, are rarely allowed and must be approved in advance. There is no formal system for regular mail or package delivery, and many prisoners rely on family visits to receive basic necessities; though these visits are also frequently restricted.

We regret that the British Embassy cannot accept mail for onward delivery.  Any received will be returned to the sender.

Telephone calls

In Equatorial Guinea, access to telephone calls for prisoners is extremely limited and tightly controlled.

Prisoners are generally not allowed regular phone calls, and many are held incommunicado, meaning they have no contact with the outside world, including family or legal representatives. This is especially true in high-security facilities like Black Beach Prison, where detainees may go months or even years without any form of communication.

For foreign nationals, consular support may help facilitate limited communication. For example, the British High Commission in Cameroon can assist British detainees in Equatorial Guinea, but even then, access to phone calls depends on the cooperation of local authorities.

There is no formal system for monitored or scheduled inmate calls, and unlike in many other countries, Equatorial Guinea does not provide structured access to phone services for prisoners.

In summary, telephone access is not guaranteed, and most prisoners are effectively cut off from outside contact, unless exceptional arrangements are made through diplomatic or legal channels.

Making a complaint about mistreatment

In Equatorial Guinea, prisoners do not have a reliable or protected mechanism to file complaints about mistreatment. While the law may theoretically allow detainees to report abuse, in practice:

• mistreatment and torture are widespread, especially in police custody and high-security prisons like Black Beach.

• complaints are rarely investigated, and authorities often fail to take action against officials accused of abuse.

• there is no independent oversight body that regularly monitors prison conditions or ensures accountability.

• prisoners who attempt to report mistreatment may face retaliation or further abuse, and many are held incommunicado, making it nearly impossible to raise concerns safely.

• foreign nationals may have slightly better chances of raising complaints through their embassy or consulate, which can protest mistreatment to local authorities and request medical or legal support.

• in summary, while the right to complain exists in principle, in practice it is extremely limited, and prisoners often suffer abuse without recourse or protection.

Chapter 3: The Equatorial Guinea judicial system

Overview

Equatorial Guinea’s judicial system is based on civil law influenced by Spanish traditions and customary law. It includes local courts, courts of first instance, courts of appeal, and the Supreme Court, which is the highest authority. There is also a Constitutional Court and military courts. Judges are appointed by the President, which limits judicial independence. Corruption and lack of resources are common challenges.

The FCDO cannot interfere with the judicial system. We cannot ask for your case to be judged more quickly just because you are British, or ask the authorities to waive any penalties.

First steps

What should happen after you are arrested?

According to Equatorial Guinea’s criminal procedure code and international human rights standards, a person who is arrested should expect the following:

1. Notification of Rights:

   • you have the right to be informed of the reasons for your arrest.
   • you must be informed of your legal rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel.

2. Contacting Family or Lawyer:

   • you have the right to contact your family or lawyer, typically by phone.
   • you may request that your embassy or consulate be informed of your detention, especially if you are a foreign national.

3. Legal Representation:

   • you have the right to legal counsel, and you may refuse to testify until your lawyer is present.
   • if you do not understand the local language, you have the right to a translator, which should be provided by the state.

4. Detention Conditions:

   • you may be held in a police station or temporary detention centre.
   • the law requires that you be brought before a judge within 72 hours of arrest.

5. Consular Assistance (for Foreign Nationals):

   • foreign nationals can receive support from their embassy, including welfare checks.

If you have any questions on the legal aspects of your arrest, contact your lawyer. See for a list of local English-speaking lawyers: Find a professional service abroad - Find a lawyer abroad

How long you can be remanded in custody

Detainees will remain in public jail during pretrial detention. The duration of this period depends on the complexity of the case and may be extended by the presiding judge based on the circumstances. A detainee may be eligible for release on bail if the required conditions are met. For more information about these conditions, please consult your lawyer.

Prisoners on remand and sentenced prisoners: differences

In Equatorial Guinea, there are differences between pretrial detainees and sentenced prisoners; pretrial detainees are held under much more relaxed conditions.

After you are charged

Once an accusation has been filed against you, you have the right to be informed of your legal rights. You are entitled to legal representation and may challenge the procedures surrounding your arrest. You have the right to remain silent and not to incriminate yourself. If you do not understand the local language, you have the right to be assisted by an interpreter. If you believe the accusation is false, you may contest it throughout the legal process. You are not obligated to plead guilty.

Bail

When the circumstances of your arrest and detention are established by law, you may be eligible for release upon payment of bail. In all cases, this depends on the seriousness of the situation, and the bail amount is determined accordingly. Bail is paid at the investigating court.

You, or your representatives, may contact someone to assist with the payment. If provisional release is granted, the court or tribunal will retain your passport. Bail conditions vary but typically include requirements such as regularly reporting to the court or tribunal and a prohibition on leaving the country.

Failure to comply with bail conditions may result in your return to prison.

The FCDO cannot transfer bail funds.

Trial and legal assistance

Legal assistance: lawyers and legal aid

If you wish to hire a private lawyer, see for a list of English-speaking lawyers. Prisoners Abroad can also supply general (non-country specific) information on legal aid, court proceedings and can advise on appointing a lawyer.

Trial

At the trial the prosecution makes its case. If at the close of the prosecution the court decides that there is no case against the accused, the case is dismissed. If the court decides that the accused has a case to answer, then the case for defence is heard. At the close of the hearing, both the public prosecutor and the defence summarise their case. Cases often suffer long delays, especially if they are complex.

Sentences

Sentences vary greatly in EG and will depend on the seriousness of the crime and whether it is a State or Federal crime. Your lawyer/public defender will be best placed to advice on length of sentences and on appeals processes.

Appeals

The appeal for legal infringement or breach of form has a period of 25 days to file. The appeal for review, in principle, has a period of three months for its filing, the appeal for complaint and annulment of proceedings can be filed at any moment. The sentence is reviewed through appeals, for violation of the law or legal doctrine or because documents have appeared that may affect the verdict.

Reaching the end of your sentence

Reduction of sentence (remission)

There is some provision for a reduction of sentence. In these cases, applications are on the basis of good behaviour.

Early release

There is a possibility to be released from prison before the initial release date, especially in the case of terminal illness. However, this is extremely rare.

Clemency or pardon

The pardon is a measure of grace that can only be granted by the Head of State, which is included in the Fundamental Law of Equatorial Guinea.

Financial penalties

Financial penalties can occur and are decided by the Court.

Transfer to another prison within EG

Inmates can be transferred from one prison to another based on a decision from the Ministry of Penitentiary Administration.

Various reasons for such a transfer are prison labour, security or disciplinary reasons, and on your own demand as mentioned above.

Transfer to a prison in the UK

At the moment there is no bilateral agreement on this matter between Equatorial Guinea and the United Kingdom.

Release and deportation

Sometimes people find that they face difficulties adjusting to life in the UK once they have left prison. You may find yourself ready for life on the outside but not prepared for living in the UK. You may not have lived in the UK before and have no connections there, or perhaps you have lost touch with friends and family. You may want to talk to another person who understands what you have been through, to help you consider what to do next.

If you are registered with Prisoners Abroad, you can visit Prisoners Abroad when you first arrive back in UK for advice, to use their temporary luggage store, make essential phone calls or use a computer. If you have no belongings Prisoners Abroad may be able to help with basic toiletries and finding suitable clothing. If you know your release date in advance you should tell the Prisoner and Family Support Team when you are likely to arrive and what help you think you might need. If you have no money and nowhere to go, Prisoners Abroad’s Resettlement Service can help with:

• advice on finding emergency accommodation in the London area
• claiming welfare benefits, including emergency benefit payments if you are destitute
• making appointments with doctors and dentists
• putting you in touch with local agencies if you are not returning to the London area

Later on you may want advice on housing, looking for work, applying for training or getting counselling. Prisoners Abroad can refer you to the right agency.

Other sources of practical help back in the UK are:

The Salvation Army

UK Helpline +44 (0)20 7367 4888

Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm, or contact your local Salvation Army branch

The Prison Fellowship

UK Helpline +44 (0)20 7799 2500

Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Your criminal record in the UK

We will not normally pass on information about your case to a third party without your consent. However, if you’re arrested for certain serious offences, such as child sex abuse or drugs crimes, our staff must tell other relevant UK authorities. It is possible that information about this may appear if a Criminal Records Bureau check were carried out by a prospective employer.

Chapter 4: Additional information

Additional Information

Prisoners Abroad

Since 1978 the charity Prisoners Abroad has offered practical support and advice to British citizens imprisoned abroad. It is the only UK charity providing this service. It is available to all, whether guilty or innocent, convicted or awaiting charge or trial. Prisoners Abroad supports your health and welfare during your imprisonment. It can also provide support on your return to the UK, through their resettlement service (if you have registered whilst in prison). They can also provide support and advice to your family when you are in prison. To access any services, you must first register with Prisoners Abroad by signing and returning their authorisation form.

Once you seek help from Prisoners Abroad, the Prisoner & Family Support Service will be your point of contact for advice and information. The type of assistance they can offer varies from country to country, but generally they can provide you with information, in English, on:

• your rights as a prisoner
• issues that may affect you such as health or transfer to the UK
• getting magazines, newspapers, books and the regular Prisoners Abroad newsletter
• learning the language of your country of imprisonment
• translating documents
• grants for food if you are in a developing country and do not have funds from other sources
• grants for essential medicines and toiletries if you do not have funds from other sources
• preparing for release
• help for your loved ones, including information, family support groups and, in a few cases, assistance with the cost of visiting
• Freepost envelopes to help you stay in touch with others

Prisoners Abroad

UK Helpline +44 (0)20 7561 6820 or 0808 172 0098

Mondays to Fridays  9:30am to 4:30pm (UK time)

89 – 93 Fonthill Road

London N4 3JH

UK

Annex

FCDO guidance: Support for British nationals abroad

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/support-for-british-nationals-abroad-a-guide

FCDO guidance: Arrested abroad: advice for British nationals

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/arrest-or-detention/arrested-abroad-advice-for-british-nationals

List of English-Speaking Lawyers

Find a professional service abroad - Find a lawyer abroad

List of Private Translators/Interpreters

Find a professional service abroad

Prisoners Abroad Forms

https://www.prisonersabroad.org.uk/arrest-and-imprisonment