Corrections guards attacked in Auckland

AUCKLAND: Four Corrections guards at Auckland Prison have been injured at the hands of prisoners during a serious assault yesterday afternoon.

In a brief statement, police confirmed the attack took place about 4.25pm and said the victims sustained ‘‘non lifethreatening injuries’’.

Waitemata police are investigating the incident.

Prison director Andy Langley said four prisoners assaulted staff members at Auckland Prison yesterday.

‘‘Four staff have been taken to hospital for assessment and treatment. Every assault on staff is taken seriously. However, their injuries are not lifethreatening.

‘‘Our staff manage some of New Zealand’s most dangerous people in a complex and challenging environment. No assault or violent behaviour is tolerated, and any prisoner who resorts to this behaviour is held to account.

‘‘Our staff do an incredible job in some very challenging circumstances in order to keep New Zealanders safe.’’

The matter had been referred to police, and the prisoners involved would be held to account for their actions, Mr Langley said.

Auckland Prison, known as Paremoremo Prison, is home to New Zealand’s only specialist maximumsecurity prison unit and houses some of the nation’s most violent criminals. — NZME