Investigation launched into Bedford prison 'riot'

The Prison Service has launched an investigation into an alleged riot at HMP Bedford said to have involved 200 of the prison's inmates.

A spokesman said: "Specially trained prison officers and staff from the emergency services have successfully resolved an incident involving a number of prisoners at HMP Bedford.

"An investigation into this incident will take place. We are absolutely clear that prisoners who behave in this way will be punished and could spend significantly longer behind bars."

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The situation was brought under control after a six-hour operation involving police and ambulance crews on Sunday.

Numerous videos said to show the riot were uploaded on social media. The footage, which has not been verified, allegedly shows prisoners occupying the hallways, shouting and cheering.

There were also reports of a number of explosions and loud bangs coming from inside the prison.

Steve Gillan, the general secretary of the Prison Officers Association, said several guards were forced to retreat to a "safe place" during the disturbance.

According to Sky News, two inmates were treated for non-serious injuries. No guards are understood to have been injured.

Richard Fuller, the MP for Bedford and Kempston, is to put forward an "urgent question" to Justice Secretary Liz Truss in parliament today, say local news sources.

The prison, which dates back to 1801, holds around 500 men. It is classed as Category B, which means prisoners do not require maximum security but any escape would pose a "large risk" to the community.