Two inmates have been charged with the murder of Ian Watkins following a fatal stabbing inside the maximum-security HMP Wakefield. The shocking killing occurred on Saturday 11 October, when Watkins, 48, was found with a severe neck wound and died at the scene shortly after prisoners were unlocked for the day.
West Yorkshire Police have charged Rashid Gedel, 25, who identifies as “any other black background,” and Samuel Dodsworth, 43, identifying as White British. Both men remain in custody and are due to appear at Leeds Magistrates’ Court in the coming days.
Rather than being separated from other inmates, Watkins was housed alongside regular prisoners, including killers, drug dealers, and gangsters. Sources reveal that he repeatedly paid other inmates for protection, but this was ultimately insufficient to prevent the fatal attack.
“Watkins was known for paying for his security in jail. He was getting rinsed,” a source told The Sun. “Someone threatened him and demanded money, saying, ‘Give me cash and I’ll protect you.’ We don’t know why that person then turned on him and slit his neck.”
“He was getting no special protection. It put him in extreme danger. It was almost as if he knew his time was up.”
Watkins was imprisoned in 2013 after being convicted of horrific child sex offences, including attempted rape and assault of children under 13, as well as possession of indecent images. His lengthy sentence reflected the severity of his crimes.
The former musician had previously faced dangers behind bars. In 2023, he was stabbed and reportedly held hostage by other inmates, underscoring the brutal conditions inside HMP Wakefield.
Police continue their investigation into the murder. The Prison Service has declined to comment further due to the ongoing inquiry.
Originally published by UKNIP.
