Police officer stabbed in chest at high security prison

A police officer who was stabbed in the chest at Frankland Prison has been described as “stable” in hospital.

Durham Police said the officer, who is from the Greater Manchester force, suffered a single stab wound to the chest at about 11:00 BST, which occurred during an interview with a remand prisoner.

A man in his 60s has been detained.

Durham Police’s Det Ch Insp Chris Smiles said: “Our thoughts are with our colleague, who suffered appalling injuries while simply doing his job”.

“Thankfully, his condition is no longer critical and we wish him a full and speedy recovery,” he added.

“We are liaising with the victim and his family and our investigation is ongoing.”

HMP Frankland in Durham City is a category A men’s jail, meaning it has the highest level of security.

A spokeswoman for Greater Manchester Police said: “An officer from our Major Incident Team was stabbed by an inmate at HM Prison Frankland.

“We have made the family aware of this incident and are supporting them through this incredibly difficult time.”

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood said on X, formerly Twitter: “Deeply concerning news from HMP Frankland today, where a police officer has been stabbed, though is conscious and talking in hospital.

“I am being kept up-to-date with all developments and my thoughts are with that brave officer.”

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: “Violence in prisons is not tolerated and our thoughts are with the brave police officer stabbed at HMP Frankland today.

“Improving the safety of our prisons is one of the Lord Chancellor’s top priorities and she is being kept up-to-date on the situation.”