Gangland cash spent on prison contract beatings and attempted murders hits staggering £3m

Gangland cash spent on prison contract beatings and attempted murders has soared to a staggering £3 million, marking a record high. The increase in violence is exacerbated by a recent influx of major gangsters into Scottish prisons, intensifying the strain on the system already grappling with high levels of bloody attacks. The Daily Record investigation has uncovered alarming statistics:

• Gangland contract violence expenditure has surpassed £3 million.
• The number of organized crime group members incarcerated has surged by 21% in a year, with 653 individuals contributing to the turmoil.
• Violent incidents per month have risen from 95 in 2022 to 163 this year, marking a 72% increase in two years.
• Instances of drones carrying contraband such as drugs and weapons to prisons have surged from 7 in 2022 to 67 this year.
• 8% of the total prison population comprises identified Organised Crime Group members.

Tony Martin, the Scottish Prison Service’s Divisional Head of Operational Delivery, highlighted the impact of overcrowding on the heightened risk levels within prisons. The recent wave of gangland convictions resulting from the decryption of the international Encrochat phone system is predicted to exacerbate the situation further. Martin underscored the challenges in managing high-profile criminals within the prison environment, where criminal activities persist. The complex dynamics within prisons often lead to unforeseen confrontations among rival factions, escalating tensions.

Despite the efforts to mitigate violence and contraband smuggling, challenges persist due to the continuous influx of serious crime figures into prisons. The deployment of drones to deliver illicit items exacerbates the situation, prompting heightened security measures. The Scottish Prison Service commended its officers for their vigilance in curbing violence and intercepting illicit items.

Justice Secretary Angela Constance acknowledged the pressure posed by overcrowding and organized crime within the prison system. Efforts to address these issues include increased funding for the Scottish Prison Service to ensure a safe and secure environment. Collaboration with partners on the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce aims to mitigate the harm caused by organized crime within prisons.

In conclusion, the escalating gangland activities and violence within Scottish prisons underscore the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining order and security. The influx of high-profile criminals and the influx of contraband via drones pose significant threats, necessitating concerted efforts to address these issues effectively.