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Albany inmates riot

Albany inmates riot

Up to 20 inmates rioted in Albany prison yesterday, causing damage to cells.

The Department of Corrective Services said today most of the prisoners involved in the incident were now being transferred to jails in the metropolitan area.

The riot is believed to have started about 6pm in a maximum security unit of the regional prison, which is currently holding 303 prisoners.

A department spokeswoman said the incident was contained to one unit and damage was caused to the unit and the yard.

The prisoners surrendered themselves to prison officers and all prisoners were cleared from the Unit by 2.20am.

No prisoners or prison officers were injured during the incident.

The spokeswoman said when the disturbance started, prison officers managed to lock down the unit, isolating the rioting prisoners, and begin negotiations with those involved.

Commissioner James McMahon said the incident was sparked by a few ringleaders.

“Prison officers and other Department staff responded quickly, professionally and appropriately to manage the incident,” the Commissioner said.

“The disturbance was contained to one Unit and most importantly there were no injuries to staff or prisoners.”

The Commissioner said the Department was still assessing the damage, but it was not believed to be extensive.

Albany Prison has a design capacity of 186, but now holds 303 prisoners which raised fears that overcrowding is fuelling tensions at the jail.