Multiple individuals were injured in separate violent incidents at HMP Parc in Wales and in Woolwich, London. The prison riot in Wales and the knife fight in London have raised concerns about safety and security in these areas.
Three Prisoners Hospitalized Following Riot at Welsh Prison
On Friday, May 31, 2024, a riot involving around 20 inmates occurred at HMP Parc in Bridgend, Wales. The prison has been under scrutiny due to 10 sudden inmate deaths over the past three months. As a result of the disturbance, three prisoners required hospitalization.
The incident involved two separate altercations. The first one saw about 20 prisoners engaged in a disruption, which was resolved with assistance from the Prison and Probation Service, including the deployment of a riot squad. The second altercation, unrelated to the first, involved three prisoners who needed hospital treatment. No staff injuries were reported in either case.
G4S, the private security firm managing the prison, stated that none of the prisoners’ injuries were life-threatening. An air ambulance arrived on the scene but was later stood down. G4S assured that those involved would face the strongest possible punishments, including criminal prosecution.
This unrest follows significant issues at HMP Parc, including allegations of drug-dealing, violence, corruption, and severe understaffing. Earlier, grieving families held a protest demanding G4S be removed from its contract. Recently, the Prisons Minister Edward Argar confirmed that four out of nine recent deaths in the prison were drug-related.
Knife Fight in Woolwich Leaves Several Hospitalized
On the same evening, May 31, 2024, a violent altercation occurred in Woolwich, South London, resulting in one man being taken to a major trauma center and several others hospitalized. The Metropolitan Police responded to reports of a fight involving men armed with large knives on Thomas Street at around 6:25 PM.
Twelve individuals were arrested in connection with the incident, with a Section 60 order covering the entire SE18 postcode area remaining in effect until Saturday morning. The police are investigating the incident and are calling for witnesses or anyone with footage to come forward.
The London Ambulance Service attended to the scene, treating two patients. One was transported to a trauma center, while the other refused further treatment.
Both events highlight ongoing concerns about violence and safety in specific areas of Wales and London.