48 inmates at Lantin Prison have been refusing to return to their cells since Saturday afternoon in protest against their detention conditions, causing them to spend the night outside.
On Sunday morning, one inmate agreed to return to his cell, but the remaining 47 continued their protest, according to a spokeswoman for the prison administration.
The incident began late Saturday afternoon when about 50 prisoners refused to return to their cells after their time in the yard. After discussions, two inmates returned to their cells, leaving the rest to spend the night outside.
On Sunday morning, further talks took place between the prison management and two inmate representatives. Following these talks, one prisoner agreed to go back to his cell, while the other 47 persisted in their protest, stated Valérie Callebaut, the prison administration’s spokeswoman.
The prisoners initiated this protest to highlight their dissatisfaction with current conditions. Specifically, their demands include more showers, more yard time, and better canteen services, though these demands are unfeasible due to the prison’s overcrowding, explained the spokeswoman.
Both the exterior and interior of the prison are being secured with the assistance of local police, yet the situation remains calm, emphasised Ms Callebaut.
