Police are investigating an alleged attack on a prison officer by Southport triple killer Axel Rudakubana, who is accused of throwing boiling water at the officer during an incident at HMP Belmarsh on Thursday, May 8, 2025. The 18-year-old, currently serving a minimum of 52 years for the brutal murders of three young girls, reportedly heated the water in his cell using a kettle before launching the attack through a hatch in his door.
The prison officer, who suffered only minor injuries, was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Woolwich as a precaution but was discharged later that same day. Sources indicate that the officer is expected to return to work next week. This incident has raised serious concerns regarding prison safety, particularly in light of recent violent events involving other inmates.
Rudakubana's actions come just weeks after another notorious inmate, Hashem Abedi, the brother of the Manchester Arena bomber, allegedly attacked three prison officers at HMP Frankland in County Durham. Abedi was subsequently moved back to HMP Belmarsh, where he had previously been found guilty of assaulting a prison officer in 2020. The Prison Service has stated that violence in prison will not be tolerated, and they will pursue the strongest possible punishment for attacks on staff.
Rudakubana is serving time for the horrific murders of Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, who were killed during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport on July 29, 2024. In addition to the three counts of murder, he was convicted of 10 counts of attempted murder and other serious offenses, including possession of a knife and producing the deadly toxin ricin.
The public inquiry into the Southport murders commenced in April 2025, as authorities seek to understand how Rudakubana was able to carry out such a violent act. The inquiry aims to address the failures that allowed this tragedy to occur and to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As reported, Rudakubana's attack on the prison officer has prompted an immediate investigation into how he gained access to boiling water. This raises critical questions about security protocols within the prison system, particularly concerning the management of dangerous inmates. The incident has been described by prison officials as both shocking and terrifying, particularly given the recent history of violence in the facility.
In 2024, assaults on prison staff in England and Wales reached their highest level in a decade, with over 10,600 recorded incidents, up from 9,200 in 2023. This alarming trend has led to increased scrutiny of prison conditions and the safety of staff working in these high-pressure environments. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced plans to trial the use of Tasers in prisons and to conduct a review of protective measures for prison officers.
Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick has criticized the government's response to the ongoing crisis in prison safety, stating that warnings have been ignored and calling for immediate action rather than lengthy reviews. The recent incidents involving Rudakubana and Abedi have amplified concerns about the welfare of prison staff and the overall safety of the prison environment.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring that prison officers can perform their duties without fear of violent attacks. The prison service is under pressure to implement changes that will protect staff and inmates alike, as the public and officials alike demand accountability and reform.
Rudakubana's case is particularly disturbing, given the nature of his crimes and the impact they had on the community in Southport. The murders of the three young girls shocked the nation and sparked widespread outrage, leading to protests and calls for justice. As the inquiry into the Southport murders progresses, many are hopeful that lessons will be learned to prevent future tragedies.
In summary, the attack on the prison officer by Axel Rudakubana is a stark reminder of the challenges facing the prison system in the UK. With increasing violence and rising concerns about safety, it is clear that significant changes are needed to protect staff and uphold the integrity of the justice system. As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight will remain on the measures taken to address these pressing issues and ensure a safer environment for all.
