Chaos at HMP Birmingham: Riots Rage, Four Wings Taken Over
Explosive footage has emerged from inside HMP Birmingham as rioting prisoners set fire to multiple wings and breach internal gates. Four wings are now under inmate control, with officers from the elite Tornado team even having paint thrown at them during efforts to regain order.
Massive Reinforcements Arrive Amid Unfolding Chaos
To tackle the escalating violence, an additional force from HMP Aylesbury has been called in, swelling riot officer numbers to 278 on site. Yet, with no end in sight, authorities have requested support from HM Prison Isle of Wight’s Tornado team. This new wave joins previously deployed squads from Risley, Onley, Bullingdon, and Liverpool as part of a third phase response aimed at regaining control.
Fire and Smoke: Trapped Inmates Plead for Help
The violent outbreak began just after 9am at the Victorian-era Category B jail operated by private firm G4S in Winson Green. Inmates reportedly stole keys from guards to fuel the chaos. Flames are clearly visible inside the prison, with reports of prisoners trapped and calling for help amid thick smoke.
Authorities Take Command: Prison Service Leads Response
“Given the scale of this incident and deployment of national resources, we have agreed that the overall operational responsibility for the response will transfer to the Prison Service with immediate effect,” said Jerry Petherick, G4S Managing Director for custodial and detention services.
“Our command team remains on site and our staff will be actively involved in the recovery of the affected wings.”
West Midlands Police confirmed the disorder is fully contained within the prison walls and stressed no officers are currently inside. Police Commander Richard Moore stated, “This operation will be led by the Prison Service and its specialist teams which are well-drilled in tackling such situations.”
No Staff Injuries Reported, But Prisoners Still Stirring Trouble
The Prison Officers Association expressed grave concerns. “Approximately 300 prisoners are involved across two wings,” said a statement. “No staff injuries have been reported so far, but this incident exposes once again that the prison service is in crisis.”
Fire engines remain stationed outside the prison, which holds up to 1,450 adult males, as emergency crews work to bring the blaze under control and restore order.
