Prison Disturbance Causes Damage, Injures Officer at Perth's Casuarina Facility

A significant disturbance involving approximately seven inmates has caused extensive damage at Perth's maximum-security Casuarina Prison, leaving one officer with minor injuries. The incident unfolded on Thursday, prompting a response from specialized prison units.

According to the WA Prison Officers Union secretary, Andy Smith, two wings of a prison unit were severely damaged, with water inundating several cells. Smith estimated that the damage could render between 50 to 60 beds unusable, highlighting the potential impact on prison capacity. He stressed the importance of maintaining cell availability, stating, "We can't afford to lose cells."

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We can't afford to lose cells.

The Department of Justice confirmed the disturbance, reporting that officers from the Special Operations Group and Prison Response Team intervened and successfully resolved the incident. All involved prisoners were secured in their cells. While preliminary reports indicated significant damage, the department stated that all cells in the affected unit are operational and that the extent of the damage is currently being assessed. The union indicated that repairs would take time.

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Preliminary reports indicate about seven prisoners caused a disturbance this afternoon in their unit wing at Casuarina Prison. Officers from the Special Operations Group and Prison Response Team resolved the incident, securing all prisoners in their cells. One officer sustained a minor injury. Damage to the unit is being assessed. All cells in the unit are operational.