Prison officers seriously injured in attack by inmates at Wormwood Scrubs
TWO prison officers have been seriously injured after being attacked by inmates at Wormwood Scrubs.
The Prison Officer's Association (POA) has confirmed the two were set upon at the west London prison while carry out their duties this morning.
They have both been taken to hospital.
Mike Rolfe, national chairman elect of the Prison Officers' Association, said: "The POA can confirm two prison officers have been seriously injured whilst performing their duties at Wormwood Scrubs.
"Both members of staff were badly assaulted by prisoners on the wing and have been taken to hospital."
On Friday about 50 members went on strike over health and safety fears following recent attacks on staff.
A Scotland Yard spokesman said: "Police were called at 11.15am on Sunday following reports that two members of staff had been assaulted at Wormwood Scrubs."
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A Prison Service spokeswoman said: "Following an incident at HMP Wormwood Scrubs on Sunday two members of staff were taken to hospital for treatment."
"We do not tolerate violence against our hardworking officers.
"The perpetrator has been placed in segregation and will face a police investigation, which could lead to criminal charges."
An inspection report published last month criticised conditions akin to "Dickensian squalor" at the prison.
The union said it has not ruled out future strikes at the category B prison, which holds about 1,200 men.
A Prison Service spokesperson said: "Following an incident at HMP Wormwood Scrubs on Sunday 8 May two members of staff were taken to hospital for treatment."