The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is likely to bring charges against a prisoner, who it said might have been the culprit in an arson-related incident at Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk on Thursday.
“Internal investigations are ongoing to gather evidence with the likelihood of criminal charges being placed against the alleged Prisoner,” a news release stated on Friday.
According to reports, the fire was observed coming from the Orange Wing at approximately 6:00pm. It was reported that that particular wing had housed nine prisoners.
The report stated that the fire, which occurred at the roof of the building, was quickly responded to and extinguished by the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) staff and the Fire & Rescue Services.
“No Prisoners were injured or experienced any form of symptoms from the smoke,” the report said.
The report added: “The Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force were on-site to support DCR staff if needed, which is normal in these circumstances. The incident was declared under control and closed by the Superintendent at approximately 7:00pm.”
Minister of Home Affairs Hon. Otis Morris, under whose portfolio prison falls, asserted that the prisoner would be dealt with, as he congratulated those who brought the incident under quick control.
"I am very proud of the Team at the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for the great work they did during the incident, and I am also proud of the response from our Fire & Rescue Services.
“Continue the great work. Furthermore, measures will be put in place to deal with the disruptive Prisoner, and we will do whatever is necessary to uphold a conducive environment for staff and Prisoners at the DCR," he said.