A PRISON officer was taken to hospital following an ‘incident’ at HMP Hewell over the weekend where up to 30 prisoners caused ‘significant damage’ to a prison wing.
‘Tornado’ squads, equipped to deal with riots, were sent to the category B prison about 7.30pm after trouble broke out on Saturday (July 22).
It was reported shouting and swearing, as well as banging and dogs barking, could be heard from outside.
The Prison Officers Association (POA) confirmed inmates were believed to have been under the influence of ‘hooch’ and the psychotic substance, spice, had previously been smuggled into the prison using drones.
A smoking ban was enforced on Monday which is believed to have fuelled the incident.
Jackie Marshall, National Executive Council (NEC) member of the POA, said: “Significant damage was caused to the wing and up to 80 prisoners, not all involved, have since been dispersed to other prisons.
“A smoking ban is currently in place as the whole Prison Service is set to be smoke free.
“Second hand smoke is a serious issue and a danger to staff.
“Staff shortages are also big problem at HMP Hewell.”
Prison authorities are now back in full control of the affected wing and the matter has been referred to West Mercia Police.
A Prison Service spokesperson confirmed one prison officer was taken to hospital but couldn’t comment further.
She said: “An incident involving a small number of prisoners took place on Saturday, July 22.
“We do not tolerate violence in our prisons.
“Where incidents like this occur, we will always work closely with the police to push for the strongest possible punishment.”
