Bomb plotter's attack at prison triggers review

DURHAM MP Mary Kelly Foy called for higher wages and earlier retirement ages for “dedicated” prison officers after three were badly hurt in an attack by bomb plotter Hashem Abedi.

- ADAM FOSTER AND POL ALLINGHAM Reporters

The Ministry of Justice has said it will carry out a review following reports that Manchester bomb plotter Abedi attacked three officers at HMP Frankland with hot oil and home-made weapons.

Abedi threw hot cooking oil over three officers on Saturday before stabbing them with “home-made weapons”, the Prison Officers’ Association (POA) said.

The officers sustained life-threatening injuries including burns, scalds and stab wounds in the “unprovoked” and “vicious” attack according to the trade union covering prison staff.

Two officers sustained “severe stab wounds” but are in a stable condition in hospital, POA’s national chairman said yesterday.

A female officer had been discharged on Saturday.

Posting on Facebook yesterday, City of Durham Labour MP Mary Kelly Foy said: “I’m utterly horrified by the events which unfolded at HMP Frankland.

“Last night, I reached out to The POA and Governor to offer any support they may see fit.

“My thoughts are with the prison officers who were attacked, as well as their families and colleagues, at this incredibly difficult time.

“It shouldn't take an incident like this to shine a spotlight on the hard-work and dedication of our prison officers in County Durham and across the country.

“Simply put - increase their wages to reflect the daily danger they face, listen to their concerns around working conditions and the prison estate - and reduce their retirement age!”