A prisons watchdog has issued a warning about a high number of deaths at a privately run prison, most of which are linked to the synthetic drug spice.
The prisons and probation ombudsman, Adrian Usher, said it had confirmed six deaths at HMP Parc in Bridgend, with at least four being drug-related.
Usher urged all prisoners to dispose of any spice in their possession.
In a statement, Usher said: “Over the last few days, we confirmed that six deaths have occurred at HMP Parc in just under one month. I am saddened by this high number, and I offer my deepest condolences to those affected.
“Yesterday, we said that we are not making any assumptions as to whether there is a link between these deaths – however, after initial inquiries, we now believe at least four out of the six deaths are drug-related.
“These deaths likely involve spice, mixed with another family of drugs. There has been a national public health warning issued about this particular drug, the name of which is yet to be determined, but we believe that at least two of the deceased at HMP Parc had taken this substance. It is therefore likely the deaths are all spice-related.
“We urge all prisoners who are in possession of spice to dispose of it immediately. This is a dangerous drug and we do not want to see any more unnecessary deaths occur.”
The prisons and probation ombudsman has been notified of and began investigating 20 deaths at HMP Parc from 1 January 2022 to 20 March this year. This includes the six deaths between 27 February and 19 March this year.
A spokesperson for HMP Parc, which is run by G4S, said: “Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the prisoners who have died recently at Parc.
“We have a comprehensive drugs strategy and are working tirelessly to reduce supply and demand in the prison. This includes robust security measures, working with the police, and engaging substance misuse service providers and health partners to support those in our care.
“We welcome the prison and probation ombudsman warning today of the dangers of psychoactive drugs.”
