Prisoner disquiet led to brawl at Hunts Bay lock-up - police

By Kimone Witter/Clinton McGregor    

 

Senior Superintendent Kirk Ricketts, Commanding Officer for the St. Andrew South Division, says the police believe disquiet among prisoners over the recent confiscation of contraband led to Tuesday's brawl at the Hunts Bay lock-up.

 

SSP Ricketts says two police officers were conducting a welfare check of prisoners and search of cells when they were "viciously attacked" by inmates shortly before 6 p.m.

 

"An alarm was raised by the sub-officer on duty and reinforcement was brought in and we were able to quickly subdue the inmates and rescue the officers. During the attack the officers, particularly the corporal was pummelled with fists and other blunt-type instruments. He was also doused with urine and fecal matter," SSP Ricketts reported. 

 

At least five prisoners were injured. They complained about pain, swelling and other bruises and were taken to hospital. 

 

According to SSP Ricketts, recent successes during cell searches may have contributed to the incident. 

 

"...Just recently we were able to recover a number of cell phones and marijuana and as such they appear to be quite agitated, and their anger was directed to one of the particular officers who was quite efficient in doing his job, and as such he was attacked."