Convicted terrorist Hashem Abedi, the brother of the Manchester Arena bomber, is under fresh scrutiny after launching a brutal and premeditated attack on three prison officers at HMP Frankland in County Durham.
Abedi, 28, who is serving a life sentence for his role in the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, allegedly ambushed staff in the kitchen of a separation unit, where high-risk inmates are held. According to reports, he was “silent and grinning” throughout the attack, which involved throwing scalding hot oil over a female officer and stabbing two others with improvised weapons.
A Chilling Attack in a High-Security Prison
Investigators believe Abedi melted down sachets of butter to create a form of hot oil, which he hurled over the female officer, causing severe burns. He then stabbed two male officers using makeshift knives fashioned from cooking trays, with kitchen towels wrapped as handles to create 30cm-long weapons.
The unprovoked assault unfolded in the prison kitchen and is being described by security officials as a meticulously planned act of violence.
Police Investigation Ongoing
In a statement released by Durham Constabulary, a spokesperson confirmed that Counter Terrorism Policing North East is leading the investigation.
“The investigation into a serious assault of three prison officers at HMP Frankland remains ongoing today,” the force said.
“Two victims remain in hospital with serious injuries and the third victim was discharged from hospital yesterday.
Extensive enquiries continue to establish the full circumstances and explore any potential motivation. We are keeping an open mind as we investigate to establish the facts.”
Security Concerns at High-Profile Prisons
This incident comes amid growing concern about extremist activity within the UK’s high-security prisons, particularly in separation centres, which are designed to isolate radicalised inmates.
Abedi was previously involved in a 2020 attack on guards at HMP Belmarsh, and his behaviour has reportedly continued to raise red flags among prison staff.
The attack at Frankland is expected to intensify calls for a comprehensive review of how radicalised prisoners are managed. Former prison governor Ian Acheson has repeatedly warned of growing extremism behind bars, describing the separation centres as “tinderboxes”.
Victims and Prison Staff Praise
The Prison Officers’ Association (POA) has expressed concern over the injuries suffered by its members, calling for immediate reviews of safety protocols and equipment within high-security facilities.
“Our officers go to work each day knowing the risks, but no one should face an attack of this scale,” said a POA spokesperson. “We are thankful for the bravery and rapid response of the prison staff involved.”
Public and Political Reactions
The attack has reignited public anger over Abedi’s presence in the UK prison system, with many questioning how such a high-profile terrorist was able to carry out a violent attack under close supervision.
On social media, reactions ranged from outrage to concern. One post on X read:
“How does a convicted terrorist manage to cook up oil and create weapons without being stopped? This is a massive security failure.”
Who is Hashem Abedi?
Hashem Abedi is the younger brother of Salman Abedi, the suicide bomber who killed 22 people and injured hundreds more at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester on May 22, 2017.
In 2020, Hashem was convicted of 22 counts of murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to cause explosions. The judge labelled him equally culpable, citing his significant role in planning and procuring materials for the attack.
What Happens Next?
The investigation is ongoing, with further statements expected from the Ministry of Justice, Counter Terrorism Policing, and the Prison Service in the coming days. Discussions around prison reform, radicalisation prevention, and staff safety are likely to intensify in Parliament following this latest incident.
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
