MoJ Settles Out of Court Over Prison Blaze Horror
The Ministry of Justice has quietly settled a High Court case following a terrifying prison fire that broke out in 2015. The blaze, deliberately started by inmate Dino Laximidas, engulfed the Alpha Wing of House Unit 15, putting prisoners’ lives at serious risk.
Deadly Fire Rips Through Prison Wing
On February 18, 2015, while prisoners were locked in their cells, the fire erupted swiftly. Thick black smoke filled the wing, spreading chaos and panic. Seven fire engines, an aerial ladder platform, and eight ambulances rushed to the scene as a major incident was declared.
Fifteen prisoners were injured. Four needed urgent hospital treatment at St Mary’s, and six others received oxygen back at the prison. One inmate even required CPR after inhaling dense smoke on the wing landing.
Aftermath: Mass Transfers and Legal Action
The fire forced the transfer of 86 prisoners to another facility. In the fallout, over 20 former inmates launched legal claims against the MoJ. They accused the government department of multiple breaches in their duty of care during the blaze.
A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: “We only settle when it is in the best interests of the taxpayers, and any outstanding debts owed to victims must be paid before prisoners receive any compensation.
