Prison officers at HMP Swaleside on the Isle of Sheppey were rushed to hospital after their staff curry was allegedly spiked by inmates. The Criminal Justice Workers Union (CJWU) described the event as a “mass poisoning of staff” at the high-security prison.
As many as 25 staff suffered symptoms after consuming a special “staff curry” laced with a synthetic drug, believed to be spice – a dangerous New Psychoactive Substance (NPS). Paramedics scrambled to the jail last Thursday (May 9), with at least three employees hospitalised for serious aftercare.
Andy Hamlin from the CJWU said: “Prisoners preparing food in the staff canteen spiked a ‘staff special curry’ with what is believed to be a New Psychoactive Substance (NPS).”
Spice, an artificial cannabis mimic, can trigger mood swings, anxiety, paranoia, seizures, and breathing difficulties. Affected officers showed raised heart rates and struggled to breathe.
The South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) sent nine ambulances and set up a makeshift incident unit inside the prison. While three staff were taken to Medway Maritime Hospital, the CJWU believes five were hospitalised in total.
The union has criticised HMP Swaleside management for allowing this to happen and demanded a full investigation. They want staff health and safety given top priority immediately.
Prisoners at Swaleside, including serious offenders, prepare and serve food in the staff canteen—a role usually seen as low-risk. However, this shocking incident raises major questions about current risk assessments and supervision.
HMP Swaleside has a troubled history with violence and drugs, according to His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Prisons reports.
The Ministry of Justice confirmed several staff needed medical attention but stressed that none are in critical condition. An ongoing probe into the event is underway, with all relevant agencies involved.
Originally published by UKNIP.
