A high-security prison in Kent is under investigation after inmates allegedly spiked a staff curry with a dangerous synthetic drug, resulting in several prison guards requiring hospitalisation. The incident, described as ‘mass poisoning’ by the Criminal Justice Workers Union (CJWU), occurred at HMP Swaleside, which houses dangerous criminals, including those serving life sentences.
Prisoners working in the staff canteen are suspected of spiking a ‘staff special curry’ with Spice, a synthetic cannabinoid known to cause severe side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and seizures. Up to 25 prison staff members were affected, raising serious concerns about security lapses within the facility. Despite risk assessments, the CJWU noted that inmates allowed to work in the canteen are supposed to be low-risk.
A previous inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Prisons had already flagged HMP Swaleside for high levels of violence and readily available drugs. This incident underscores the potential security risks within high-security prisons and is likely to prompt discussions about stricter protocols for inmate work programs.
“Prisoners preparing food in the staff canteen spiked a ‘staff special curry’ with what is believed to be an NPS (new psychoactive substance). 25 staff were affected and were witnessed under the influence of NPS,” CJWU official Andy Hamlin told The Metro. “Among those affected, there were symptoms, including breathing difficulties and raised heart rates.”
9 ambulances responded to the incident last Thursday, and five prison officers were hospitalised but later discharged. The CJWU has called for a thorough investigation by the prison service into the matter.
