A significant security alert has been declared across London after two prisoners deemed 'potentially dangerous' were wrongly released from HMP Wandsworth in what authorities are calling a 'serious administrative error'.
The Metropolitan Police have launched an urgent manhunt for both individuals, warning the public not to approach them under any circumstances. The mistaken releases occurred within the past week at the category B prison in southwest London.
Security Breach at London Prison
This alarming incident comes just months after terror suspect Daniel Khalife escaped from the same facility by strapping himself to a delivery van. The repeat security failure has raised serious questions about procedures at the Victorian-era prison.
Scotland Yard confirmed that prison officials alerted them to the mistaken releases, prompting immediate investigation and search operations. Police resources across London have been diverted to locate the missing inmates.
Public Warning Issued
While authorities have not released the names or photographs of the escaped prisoners, they have emphasised that both individuals pose potential risks to the public. The Metropolitan Police statement described the men as 'potentially dangerous' and urged anyone with information to contact them immediately.
The prison service has launched an internal investigation into how two prisoners could be released in error within such a short timeframe. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson acknowledged the 'serious incident' and confirmed that additional security measures are being implemented.
Growing Concerns Over Prison Security
This latest security breach has intensified scrutiny on HMP Wandsworth, which houses approximately 1,600 inmates. The prison's ageing infrastructure and staffing challenges have long been concerns for prison reform advocates.
Shadow Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the situation as 'extremely concerning' and demanded immediate answers from the government about how such errors could occur twice in quick succession.
The search operation continues across London and surrounding areas, with police following multiple lines of enquiry to locate the missing prisoners.
