Riot Police Storm Heathrow Detention Centre After Massive 100-Strong Detainee Uprising
Chaos Erupts at Harmondsworth in Early Hours
Just after 3am on Saturday, November 5, riot police from the Met, backed by specialist units and emergency services, rushed to Harmondsworth detention centre near Heathrow. Over 100 detainees triggered a major disturbance, sparking fear and chaos inside the facility.
Armed Detainees Threaten Staff, Power Cuts Add to Mayhem
Firefighters from multiple stations, Territorials Support Group (TSG) officers, and armed police were called in after reports that detainees had armed themselves with knives and lumps of wood. Power and water supplies failed in affected areas, forcing a specialist engineer onsite to fix the outage. Staff were evacuated after being threatened with violence. The unrest followed several fires set on Friday evening, which centre staff had previously contained.
Detainees Break Out into Courtyard, Air Support Launched
The large group managed to break out of their cells and gain access to the detention centre’s courtyard. Essex-based National Police air support was deployed, providing live aerial footage to commanders coordinating the response. Police and centre staff are locked in efforts to regain control.
Territorial Support Group on High Alert
The TSG, renowned as the Met’s elite public order unit, is leading the response. Trained for high-risk incidents and equipped for building entry, disorder control, and authorised firearms deployment, these officers are vital in quelling the riot.
Several police vans remain stationed at the centre perimeter. It’s unclear if there have been any injuries or the extent of damage caused. The Home Office and Met Police have been approached for updates.
Official Responses
A Home Office spokesperson said:
“There has been a power outage at Harmondsworth immigration removal centre, and work is currently underway to resolve this issue. The welfare and safety of staff and individuals detained at Harmondsworth is our key priority.”
“We are aware of a disturbance at the centre and the appropriate authorities have been notified and are on scene.”
