Detailed maps of high-security prisons across England and Wales have been leaked on the dark web, sparking serious security concerns.
The breach, which occurred over the past fortnight, has raised fears that criminals could use the information to plan escapes or smuggle contraband into facilities.
The leaked documents include detailed blueprints of prison layouts and sensitive information about the location of security sensors and cameras.
Security officials believe organised crime groups are behind the leak, which could potentially compromise prison security systems and internal alarm capabilities.
Detailed maps of high-security prisons across England and Wales have been leaked on the dark web
PA
Prison officials have been instructed to be “extra vigilant” following the security breach, with additional patrols implemented at affected facilities.
An internal email was distributed to prison officials earlier this month alerting them to the leak and its potential consequences.
Staff were specifically warned about possible compromises to perimeter security and internal alarm systems.
The Ministry of Justice has confirmed the breach but has declined to specify which prisons have been affected by the leak.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
The documents which include detailed blueprints of prison layouts and sensitive information have been shared on the dark web
Getty
Security measures have been heightened across multiple facilities in response to the threat.
Former prison governor Ian Acheson has warned about the serious implications of the security breach.
“If plans of high-security prisons have been leaked, co-ordinating that with open source material or Google maps could aid an escape after an attack on the exterior of the prison,” he said.
Acheson noted that a more likely scenario would involve using the leaked information for coordinating drone deliveries of contraband.
The leak comes amid broader concerns about prison security, with drug use described as endemic across facilities in England and Wales.
Recent inspections at HMP Hindley revealed that half of inmates were abusing illegal substances.
Prison officials have been instructed to be ‘extra vigilant’ following the security breach
GETTY
Organised crime groups have been infiltrating prisons by recruiting people with no criminal record as prison officers to act as ‘sleeper’ agents.
Charlie Taylor, chief inspector of prisons, has expressed increasing concern about drug smuggling, noting that substances are three times more expensive inside prisons than on streets.
Former prison staff blame poor recruitment practices and staff shortages for the growing security crisis.
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson has confirmed the security breach but maintained a strict policy of discretion.
“We do not comment on security matters,” the spokesperson said.
The situation highlights ongoing challenges faced by the prison service, including recruitment difficulties and staff retention issues.
Former Wormwood Scrubs Head of Security Vanessa Frake points to systemic problems, noting that “poor recruitment techniques, fewer people wanting to join a crumbling service, overcrowding, staff shortages and gangs taking advantage of all this” are contributing to security vulnerabilities.
