Guards Taken Hostage at Prision

A GUARD taken hostage in a tense siege at a Hobart prison has been released while another remains held by prisoners.

The guards were taken hostage by inmates at Hobart's Risdon Prison shortly after 10am, The Mercury reported.

In his latest update on the unfolding drama, Tasmanian Corrective Services director Robert Williams said the move was being taken as a mark of good faith in the ongoing negotiations with the inmates involved.

"The incident is far from resolved but this development is welcomed by all involved," he said.

He said the staff member released was physically unharmed but would be taken to hospital for a full medical check-up.

Mr Williams said "a small number" of inmates were involved.

"Police and emergency services have been contacted and are providing support and the Tasmanian Prison Service remains in control and command at this time," Mr Williams said.

The prison has been put in lockdown as special operations group officers and police negotiators attempt to resolve the situation - believed to be taking place in the prison's notorious maximum security Tamar Unit.

"This is a serious incident and our focus will be on obtaining a positive outcome where no member of staff, or inmates, are injured," Mr Williams said.

"The families of staff directly involved have been contacted and are being provided with support.


SourCe

I guess the prisoners thought a hostage would give them a free pass to walk out... idiots. Now they are going to have an increased sentence and new charges. smh.