UK prisons overcrowded due to wave of arrests by the Labour Government
The Labour Government implemented emergency measures on Monday to prevent overcrowding in prisons of the UK. This situation has worsened by the increase in convictions. It follows the violent riots that erupted two weeks ago, after the son of Rwandan immigrants murdered three girls. The already critical state of the prison system has been overwhelmed by the recent wave of arrests.
Under the so-called ‘Operation Early Dawn,’ the new provisions allow detainees to be held in police station cells. It postpones their court appearance until a place becomes available in prisons of the UK. This measure primarily increases the pressure of northern regions of England, such as Yorkshire, Cumbria, Lancashire, Manchester, Merseyside, and Cheshire.
The Secretary of State for Prisons, James Timpson, stated that the Labour Government has inherited a judicial system in crisis. It has forced “difficult but necessary” decisions, according to him. Timpson explained that the activation of ‘Operation Early Dawn’ is a direct response to the pressure being felt in certain areas of the country, due to the increase in convictions.
Attacks to asylums and mosques
The recent riots were instigated in response to a stabbing at a recreational center in Southport, three weeks ago. They have led to the arrest of more than 470 people. During these riots, some protesters attacked the police, throwing stones, bottles, and cans. But they also targeted hotels housing asylum seekers and mosques.
Nev Kemp, Deputy Chair of the National Police Chiefs’ Council, assured that law enforcement will continue to make arrests. They aim to ensure public safety, monitor protests and events. But they also want that those responsible for the riots are apprehended. In fact, images of some men have already been shared on social medi. Police asks for public cooperation in their arrests.
The Government has acknowledged that the rapid measures to prosecute and charge those involved in the riots have exacerbated the existing capacity issues in prisons. The situation has forced the implementation of temporary solutions. Meanwhile, some efforts are made to alleviate the pressure on the English prison system.
