Arrests following disorder by protesters outside HMP Bronzefield

Three people have been arrested following disorder outside HMP Bronzefield in Ashford today (Wednesday, 17 December).

Police were called to HMP Bronzefield this morning following reports of a protest.

Officers arrived at the scene at 5.30am to assess the situation and engage with prison staff and protesters. The group was protesting lawfully outside the prison and our officers left the scene just before 9am.

At 9.53am, Surrey Police received an update that protesters attempted to gain entry to restricted areas of the prison.

Officers were deployed to the scene and supported prison staff in removing the protesters from the building, during which one of the prison staff was assaulted.

Surrey Police arrested a 29-year-old man from Wellingborough, Northamptonshire on suspicion of assault occasioning bodily harm.

At the point of arresting this man, several people became disruptive towards police and a police officer was assaulted. A 28-year-old man from Glasgow has been arrested on suspicion of assault causing grievous bodily harm.

The protesters then blocked the road, delaying our ability to get medical assistance to the injured officer. This also caused disruption to prison transport causing an impact on wider policing activity in Surrey.

A police vehicle was damaged as part of the disorder. In connection with this, a 22-year-old woman of no fixed abode has been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage.  

All three people arrested remain in police custody.

Detective Superintendent Matt Barcraft-Barnes said: “We will support people’s rights, including those involved in lawful protest; however, this is balanced with the impact on the wider community and I condemn the actions of those involved in extensive disorder and criminal behaviour will not be tolerated. It is unacceptable that two emergency services workers have been assaulted in today’s incident.”