About Eritrea's Correctional System
Eritrea's correctional system is managed by the Eritrean Correction Service. For inmate searches, use the official contacts listed below or contact the facility directly using the phone numbers on this page. Where available, the facility listings below include addresses, inmate capacity, and descriptive information.
For US citizens detained in Eritrea, contact US Embassy Eritrea at +251 11 130 6000 immediately, or call the US State Department Citizens Emergency Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the US.
Eritrea Resources & Legal Services
Key Eritrea Prison Contacts
| Agency / Contact | Location | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eritrean Correction Service | Eritrea | See website | Visit Site |
| US Embassy Eritrea | Eritrea | +251 11 130 6000 | Visit Site |
| US State Dept Emergency (from US) | Washington DC | 1-888-407-4747 | Visit Site |
Showing 3 facilities in Eritrea
Asmara Central Prison
Facility
Closed
Eritrea's main prison. Houses sentenced remand and political prisoners. Eritrea has one of the world's most opaque prison systems. Many inmates are held indefinitely without trial under the authoritarian government of Isaias Afwerki.
Era-Eiro Prison Camp
Facility
Closed
Remote desert prison camp in the Eritrean highlands. Has held senior members of the G-15 reform movement and journalists arrested in September 2001 without charge or trial. Some detainees have died in custody from harsh conditions.
Adi Abeto Prison
Facility
Closed
Military detention facility near the Sudanese border. Houses military deserters and draft evaders. Eritrea's policy of indefinite national service has led to mass imprisonment of young people attempting to flee.
Eritrea Prison FAQ
Browse the facility listings on this page to find the specific institution, then contact them directly using the phone number listed. For US citizens detained in Eritrea, contact US Embassy Eritrea at +251 11 130 6000 immediately.
Contact US Embassy Eritrea at +251 11 130 6000 immediately, or call the US State Department Citizens Emergency Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the US. Consular officers can visit detained Americans, provide lists of local attorneys, and notify family members.
Visitation rules vary significantly by facility and security level in Eritrea. You will typically need to be on an approved visitor list, present valid government-issued photo ID, and comply with the facility's dress code. Contact the specific facility directly using the phone number listed on this page to confirm current visitation hours and requirements.
Contact No independent bar association - US Embassy Addis assists for referrals to qualified criminal defense attorneys in Eritrea. The US Embassy can also provide a list of local attorneys. You can also find a criminal lawyer through our directory.
Each Eritrea facility has its own approved methods for receiving inmate funds. Contact the facility directly using the phone numbers listed on this page for current accepted payment methods, deposit limits, and procedures.