Alleged Spice Poisoning: 25 Staff Members Fall Ill at HMP Swaleside in Kent

25 prison staff at HMP Swaleside in Kent fell ill after allegedly consuming a spiked curry, leading to calls for an investigation by the Criminal Justice Workers Union. The incident occurred on May 9, 2023, at the high-security prison on the Isle of Sheppey, prompting concerns about violence and drug availability.

Kent Prison Incident: 25 Staff Poisoned at HMP Swaleside

On May 9, 2023, 25 prison staff at HMP Swaleside in Kent fell ill after allegedly consuming a curry spiked with the synthetic drug Spice. South East Coast Ambulance Service initially treated several patients on-site, with three subsequently taken to the hospital for further checks.

The Criminal Justice Workers Union (CJWU) has called for a comprehensive investigation, accusing prison management of downplaying the incident and instructing staff not to discuss it. Union official Andy Hamlin mentioned that the prisoners responsible were working in the staff canteen, a task typically assigned to low-risk inmates.

HMP Swaleside, a high-security prison on the Isle of Sheppey, houses around 1,100 inmates. Its last inspection reported high levels of violence and drug availability. The Prison Service confirmed the incident and stated that all affected staff have since returned to work. The Ministry of Justice has launched an ongoing investigation.