Brutal Prison Officer Attack Lands Trio Behind Bars
Three inmates launched a savage assault on a prison officer at HMP Belmarsh on 11 May 2020. Hashem Abedi, 24, Ahmed Hassan, 22, and Muhammed Saeed, 23, left the officer with serious facial and head injuries, including hearing damage that needed hospital treatment.
Frenzied Attack Over Lost Privileges
The Met’s Counter Terrorism Command investigated the attack due to the inmates’ criminal records, but found no terrorist links. Officers believe the violent outburst was revenge for losing privileges, with the men bitter that other inmates were treated better.
Commander Richard Smith: “These three offenders launched a cowardly and vicious attack on a prison officer as retribution for having some of their privileges taken away.”
“One witness described it as a ‘frenzied’ attack. I have no doubt they intended to seriously injure their victim.”
“I praise the prison staff who quickly intervened and brought the situation under control.”
Attack Details: Chair Smashing and Head Kicks
- Earlier, Abedi had complained to the prison governor about his downgraded privileges.
- After exercise in the yard, the trio rushed the prison officer’s office.
- Saeed kicked the officer in the head, while Abedi swung a chair at him.
- The victim endured punches, headbutts, and kicks in the brutal assault.
Justice Served: Prison Sentences Stacked On
The three were charged in January 2020 and pleaded guilty to actual bodily harm at Woolwich Crown Court on 22 February 2022. Abedi also admitted assault on an emergency worker after attacking a second officer who tried to stop the attack.
- Abedi got 3 years and 10 months, added to his existing sentence.
- Saeed and Hassan each received 3 years, also consecutive to their current jail time.
Thanks to quick police and prison staff teamwork, the attackers were caught, prosecuted, and punished.
