Eight prison officers have been arrested on suspicion of corruption at the high-security HMP Swaleside in Kent, a facility known for housing serious offenders, including murderers.
Seven officers were detained last week, following the arrest of another officer a month earlier. The arrests have triggered an intense investigation into the activities within the prison.
A source said, “No one knows exactly what it is connected to — but there have been lots of examples of violence and drugs there.”
The prison, located on the Isle of Sheppey, has been under scrutiny for multiple incidents of violence and the smuggling of contraband. Recently, it was reported that 25 staff members at the jail were poisoned with the synthetic drug spice by inmates.
The Ministry of Justice’s counter-corruption unit, responsible for identifying and addressing misconduct within prisons and probation services, is handling the investigation. However, a spokesperson stated, “It would be inappropriate to comment on a live police investigation.”
Kent Police confirmed that all those arrested have been released on bail as the investigation continues.
HMP Swaleside has been labeled as “struggling” in past reports by watchdogs. In December, a report highlighted that the prison had witnessed 14 inmate deaths over two years. The report also pointed to significant staff shortages and a severely restricted daily routine for prisoners.
HM Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor said, “This was our sixth visit to Swaleside since 2016. During that time, we have repeatedly raised significant concerns about the prison. Overall, this was a concerning inspection. Swaleside is a prison that continues to struggle and where outcomes still need to improve dramatically.”
The prison has also faced riots in recent years, with a notable incident in 2016 where 60 inmates took control of a wing.
As the investigation unfolds, the Ministry of Justice and Kent Police aim to address the issues of corruption and ensure the safety and security of both staff and inmates at HMP Swaleside.
