Chaos erupted at HMP Birmingham as tornado teams were deployed to handle a serious incident involving approximately 50 prisoners. The Prison Service confirmed that the disturbance was limited to one wing and did not pose any threat to the public.
Insiders revealed that rival prison gangs had seized control of two wings within the facility. Prisoners were observed wearing makeshift masks made from ripped bedsheets, which increased tensions during the unrest. The disturbance is reportedly linked to anger over a newly imposed prison smoking ban.
HMP Birmingham, which is run by G4S, has a history of disorder. In December 2016, the prison experienced a 12-hour riot that required the deployment of riot squads to restore order.
A G4S spokesman stated that the company is working closely with the Prison Service “to bring the incident to a safe conclusion.” Both organisations are focused on resolving the situation swiftly and safely.
Originally published by UKNIP.