Two arrested after attempting to throw ‘prohibited items’ over prison fence

Two man were arrested after attempting to throw prohibited items into a prison this morning.

At approximately 8.15am this morning, officers were called by Erlestoke Prison staff to concerns that two men had been seen in the area acting suspiciously.

Officers attended and a 19-year-old man from Southampton was arrested on suspicion of attempting to throw a prohibited item into a prison, as well as a 34-year-old man also from Southampton who was arrested on suspicion of attempting to throw a prohibited item into a prison, taking a vehicle without consent and driving without a licence or insurance.

Advertisement

Both are currently in custody in Melksham for further questioning.

A Ford Kuga believed to have been involved in the crime has also been seized by police.

Insp Chris Martin said: “We have a really good working relationship with staff at Erlestoke prison and it is thanks to their vigilance that we were able to make these arrests swiftly.

“During the lockdown period, visitors at the prison are prohibited and we have seen a number of similar incidents in recent weeks where people have attempted to throw prohibited items into the prison for inmates. This behaviour will not be tolerated and we will continue to regularly patrol the area and work closely with the prison to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”

Anyone living in the area who may have seen anything suspicious, or may have CCTV at their address, should call 101 and quote log number 39 of April 30.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel and get breaking news sent directly to your mobile – don’t forget to turn on notifications by clicking the bell icon.

Click a topic to read more stories like this:

Keep Up to Date with the Most Important News

By pressing the Subscribe button, you confirm that you have read and are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use
Advertisement