UPDATE: |Counter terror police to lead probe into Hashem Abedi’s alleged attack on prison officers News

Abedi launched a ‘vicious’ attack on three officers at HMP Frankland in Durham, it has been claimed

Counter terror police officers will lead the investigation into the attack on three prison officers allegedly committed by Hashem Abedi.

Abedi, the brother of Manchester Arena bomber Salman Abedi, is serving a minimum of 55 years in prison after being convicted of the murders of 22 people in the May 2017 atrocity. Hashem Abedi allegedly launched a ‘vicious’ attack on the officers at HMP Frankland in Durham earlier today, a union for prison officers has claimed.

In a statement, the union said: “The Officers received life threatening injuries including burns, scalds and stab wounds when Abedi threw hot cooking oil over them then produced home made weapons and proceeded to stab the Officers.”

Two officers were in hospital with serious injuries on Saturday evening, while one female officer ha been discharged by 4pm. On Saturday night it was confirmed that counter terror police will lead the investigation.

Commander Dom Murphy, Counter Terrorism Policing’s (CTP) Acting Senior National Coordinator, said: “Given the nature of the incident, it has been agreed that CTP North East will lead the investigation, supported by Durham Constabulary.

“This is an ongoing investigation which is in its early stages, and we are working hard to establish the facts. Therefore, we are unable to comment further at this time.”

A statement released earlier by Durham Constabulary read: “An investigation is underway following a serious assault which occurred at Frankland prison, Durham today. Three victims were taken to hospital to be treated where two remain with serious injuries and a third has been discharged. Enquiries are now ongoing.”

A Prison Service spokesperson said: “Three prison officers have been treated in hospital after an attack by a prisoner at HMP Frankland. Police are now investigating so it would be inappropriate to comment further.”

“Violence in prison will not be tolerated, and we will always push for the strongest punishment for attacks on our hard-working staff.”

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood MP said on X: “I am appalled by the attack of three brave officers at HMP Frankland today. My thoughts are with them and their families.

“The police are now investigating. I will be pushing for the strongest possible punishment. Violence against our staff will never be tolerated.”