Murder probe is launched at HMP Belmarsh after inmate, 36, dies from head wounds – leading to the arrest of two fellow prisoners
A murder investigation has been launched after the death of a prisoner at Belmarsh Prison.
The inmate, 36, was found with head injuries and rushed to hospital in a critical condition on Tuesday evening but died on Wednesday.
Two men, both 28 and also prisoners at the notorious south London jail, have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
A Met Police spokesman said: ‘Police were called at 20:00hrs on Tuesday, 18 February to reports of an assault within the prison facility.
‘Officers and the London Ambulance Service attended the location where a 36-year-old man was found with head injuries.
‘The injured man was taken to hospital in a critical condition where he later died on the evening of Wednesday, 19 February. His next of kin are aware.
‘A post-mortem examination will take place in due course.
‘Two men, both aged 28, who are also inmates at the prison, were arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder. They have been remanded in custody in connection with the incident pending further enquiries.
‘Enquiries into the circumstances continue, led by the Met’s Specialist Crime Division under Detective Chief Inspector Richard Leonard.
DCI Leonard added: ‘We are working to establish the circumstances surrounding this incident with the support of SERCO and local officers.
‘At this stage I am open minded concerning motive, but expect this to become clear as the investigation progresses.’