Richard Madeley's visit to El Salvador's notorious Cecot mega-prison, aired on Channel 5, provides a chilling glimpse into the controversial facility. The presenter found thousands of men silently sitting on stacked beds in cells lit 24 hours a day. When he asked about conditions, he was told to leave.
The programme explores the nation's gang history and how former US President Donald Trump has made use of the prison. Madeley returns to the facility after learning more about these issues, offering a unique perspective on the penal system.
Critics suggest that the UK could learn from El Salvador's approach to incarceration, particularly in dealing with gang violence and prison overcrowding. However, human rights concerns remain over the harsh conditions at Cecot.
