Paraguay´s Ministry of Justice has inaugurated renovation works at a Tacumbú prison wing. This marks the transformation of a sector previously associated with high-risk inmates into a space focused on institutional services and social reintegration.
The intervention took place in the left wing of the upper floor of the Tacumbú prison. This area was historically known as the “VIP cells”. Now, the renovated section will function as a modern administrative and technical space. Furthermore, this space will be dedicated to rehabilitation programmes and inmate support services.
From high-risk confinement to institutional use
Justice Minister Rodrigo Nicora explained that the Tacumbú prison wing previously housed high-profile criminals. All of these inmates were before the 2023 Veneratio Operation, which was a large-scale security operation. The objective of this operation was to establish internal prison control.
Among those previously detained in that section was Brazilian criminal Jarvis Chimenes Pavão, who was later extradited. According to the minister, the symbolic elimination of the so-called VIP cells represents a structural and institutional shift within the penitentiary system. Furthermore, the renovated area covers approximately 200 square meters and constitutes the first phase of broader improvements planned for the facility.
Investment and functional reorganisation of the Tacumbú prison wing
The project required an investment exceeding ₲400 million. Works included a complete renovation of the flooring, roofing, and electrical systems of the Tacumbú prison wing. The newly adapted spaces will host social reintegration offices and psychological support services. As well as legal advisory units and community work coordination areas.
This approach forms part of a broader policy of resource rationalisation within the penitentiary system. In addition to the infrastructure improvements, the Minister announced plans to strengthen entry controls for visitors, staff, and other individuals entering the Tacumbú prison. Enhanced oversight measures aim to prevent irregularities and reinforce institutional security.
A gradual institutional transformation
Looking ahead, the Ministry confirmed that 2026 will be a key year for the penitentiary reform agenda. With the Guairá Department Government, authorities recently inaugurated a new women’s pavilion at the Regional Penitentiary of Villarrica, expanding capacity and improving detention conditions.
The renovation at the Tacumbú prison wing represents an initial phase within a broader restructuring process of Paraguay’s correctional system. By converting spaces formerly associated with privilege and irregular conditions into areas dedicated to reintegration services. Now, the Ministry seeks to reinforce a policy framework centred on institutional order, transparency, and rehabilitation. These measures signal a gradual shift from a purely custodial model toward a more structured reintegration-based approach within Paraguay’s prison system.
