25 Prison Officers Spiked with Psychoactive Substance In Curry

In a troubling incident at HMP Swaleside on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent, 25 prison officers reportedly fell ill following a staff meal that is suspected to have been deliberately contaminated by inmates. The incident, which took place during a meal service at the Category B men’s prison, has raised serious concerns about the safety and security measures within the facility.

According to the Criminal Justice Workers Union (CJWU), the affected officers consumed a curry that had allegedly been laced with a new psychoactive substance (NPS). NPS, often referred to as “legal highs,” are synthetic drugs designed to mimic the effects of controlled substances such as cannabis, cocaine, and ecstasy. These substances can be highly unpredictable and dangerous, leading to severe health complications.

The officers began to exhibit symptoms of illness shortly after the meal. The specific symptoms have not been detailed, but the involvement of a psychoactive substance suggests they could have included nausea, dizziness, hallucinations, and other serious effects on both physical and mental health. Medical teams were promptly called to the prison to provide treatment to the affected staff, and an investigation into the incident was immediately launched.

The CJWU has expressed grave concern over the incident, emphasizing the potential risks that prison staff face on a daily basis. “This is a deeply concerning event that highlights the dangers our members face while performing their duties,” a CJWU spokesperson said. “The deliberate spiking of food intended for staff is not just a serious breach of security, but a direct attack on their wellbeing.”

The union has called for a thorough investigation to identify those responsible and to implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future. This includes reviewing the handling and preparation of food within the prison, as well as enhancing surveillance and security protocols to detect and deter tampering.

This incident underscores a broader issue within the prison system concerning the availability and use of NPS. These substances are notoriously difficult to detect and can be smuggled into prisons through various means. The use of NPS in correctional facilities poses significant challenges not only for the health and safety of inmates but also for prison staff.

The Ministry of Justice has acknowledged the incident and stated that they are cooperating fully with the investigation. “The safety and wellbeing of our staff is our utmost priority. We are taking this incident very seriously and are working to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to prevent a recurrence.”

The alleged spiking of a meal at HMP Swaleside with a new psychoactive substance represents a severe breach of trust and security within the prison system. As the investigation continues, there is a pressing need for enhanced protective measures to safeguard prison staff from such malicious acts. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and dangerous environment that prison officers navigate daily, reinforcing the need for ongoing vigilance and robust security protocols.