Chaos Erupts at Harmondsworth Detention Centre
Riot police from the Met, backed by emergency services, rushed to Harmondsworth detention centre near Heathrow just after 3am on Saturday, November 5, 2022. The reason? A major disturbance involving more than 100 detainees.
Detainees Armed and Out of Control
Reports reveal that a large group of detainees armed themselves with knives and wooden sticks. Fire crews from London, alongside the Territorial Support Group (TSG) and armed officers, scrambled to the scene after fires were set throughout Friday evening. Power and water in the affected areas failed, forcing staff to retreat after facing threats of violence. A specialist engineer was called in to fix the utilities.
Breakout and Aerial Surveillance
It’s understood the group managed to break out and accessed the centre’s courtyard. Essex’s National Police air support helicopter was deployed, streaming live footage to senior police officers coordinating with centre staff to restore order. Several police vans remain stationed both inside and outside the facility.
What is the Territorial Support Group?
The TSG is a highly trained specialist unit ready 24/7 for high-risk operations. They handle public order at spontaneous riots, large events, prison disturbances, and major incidents including chemical, biological, or radiological threats. Many are also authorised firearms officers.
Official Response and Current Status
The Home Office confirmed a power outage at the centre is being resolved. A spokesperson said: “The welfare and safety of staff and individuals detained at Harmondsworth is our key priority.” They added that authorities were alerted and are currently managing the situation.
It remains unclear if anyone was injured or what damage the unrest caused. The Met Police and Home Office have been approached for further comment.
