Several officers and inmates were injured in a fracas at the Port of Spain Prison this morning.

According to the Prison Service, the incident around 10:15am was triggered by an incident involving an officer and an inmate.

The inmate allegedly became “violent and uncontrollable” after refusing to obey lawful instructions to return to his cell

The Prison Service says, “The officer attempted to have the inmate manage his emotions and return to the cell. However, the officer was assaulted. The officer had no choice but to defend himself and other inmates in the vicinity chose this incident to rally around, causing a fracas.”

It adds that after several attempts by officers to execute their duties in a professional manner, “the use of a level of force became necessary and was utilized.”

The fracas reportedly resulted in injuries to both officers and inmates – medical attention rendered to some at the prison infirmary, while others were taken for treatment externally.

The Prison Service did not say how many were injured, stating only that none of the injuries were life-threatening.

Prisons Commissioner Deopersad Ramoutar has launched an investigation into the matter and also engaged members of the Police Service.