Two men have died in custody at HMP Ranby, a Category C training and resettlement prison near Retford in Nottinghamshire, on Wednesday. The Ministry of Justice confirmed the deaths, and authorities have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances. Nottinghamshire Police is working alongside the Prison Service as inquiries continue.
According to BBC News, the Prison Service stated that the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will conduct a formal investigation into both deaths, as is standard procedure for all deaths occurring in custody. A Prison Service spokesperson said:
As with all deaths in custody, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate, and we will respond to its findings in due course.The Prison Service indicated it would not provide further comment at the present time.
Detective Inspector James Oakton of Nottinghamshire Police confirmed that a full investigation has commenced at the facility.
An investigation has been launched at HMP Ranby following the deaths of two prisoners on Wednesday.He added:
We are working closely with the prison service to establish the circumstances surrounding these deaths, and a thorough investigation is under way.
Support for families
The families of the deceased men are receiving support during this period. Det Insp Oakton stated:
The families of those involved are being supported, and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.Both the Prison Service and police have emphasised their commitment to establishing what occurred and providing answers to those affected.
What happens next
The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will lead the independent investigation into the deaths. Authorities have committed to responding to the ombudsman's findings once the inquiry is complete. Nottinghamshire Police will continue working with the Prison Service throughout the investigative process to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
