Authorities regain control of Maghaberry Prison

Prison staff have regained control of a section of at Maghaberry jail following what were described as "serious disturbances" in the Bann House section of the high security prison.

The incident started at around 7.30pm last night, when 35 loyalist inmates barricaded themselves into an area of Bann House. Firefighters were later called in to deal with a fire in a nearby office.

A Prison Service spokesperson said that staff regained control of the area at around 6am this morning and prisoners involved in the disturbances have now been locked in their cells.

The Director General of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, Peter Russell, said: "This was a serious incident that put at risk the safety of both staff and prisoners and it is to the great credit of staff involved that it has concluded without serious injury.

"The disturbance has only just ended and it is too early to give the full extent of the damage caused. A full assessment of the incident will now take place to see what lessons can be learned."

While there were no serious injuries reported to staff or prisoners, the Prison Service spokesperson said that around 15 staff were treated for the effects of smoke inhalation and shock.

It is understood that makeshift incendiary bombs improvised with cigarette lighter fluid had damaged sports and other equipment in Bann House.

Visits to Maghaberry Prison today have been cancelled and visits to Magilligan Prison and Hydebank Wood Young Offenders Centre may also be affected. Visitors are asked to check to confirm that visits are taking place.

(SP)