The Department of Prisons has announced that the release of inmates under the annual Christmas amnesty is expected to take place in the near future, following the completion of administrative procedures.

This year marks the first time the releases did not take place on Christmas Day.

A spokesperson for the Department said the list of eligible inmates has already been submitted to the relevant ministry.

The spokesperson added that additional reports on the prisoners have been requested and are currently being compiled.

Once the required documentation is finalised, inmates approved under the Christmas amnesty will be released accordingly.