A corrupt prison officer has been jailed for four years and six months for his role in a smuggling operation that brought drugs, mobile phones and USB sticks into HMP Isis in southeast London. Jason Thompson, 34, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to convey List A articles into prison and misconduct in a public office at Snaresbrook Crown Court in February.
The Metropolitan Police investigation began in February 2024 after Thompson was suspended by the Prison Service. Officers uncovered that he used a burner phone to facilitate 18 package drop-offs between February and July 2024, earning between £400 and £600 per package. The packages were transferred during supervised visits via the official prison booking system.
Five gang members were jailed on Thursday for a combined 25 years. Olusegan Shobanjo, 26, a ringleader inside the prison, was sentenced to five years. His brother Adedayo Shobanjo, 28, played a key role from outside. The gang prepared USB sticks with entertainment and pornographic material, along with mobile phones, cannabis and vape oil.
Police intercepted a package containing cannabis resin on March 13, 2024, leading to 11 simultaneous arrests across London and further seizures including Class A drugs and ammunition. Detective Inspector John Cowell said: “The members of this gang, which included a member of prison staff, believed they were able to bypass the law… What they did not realise was that officers had identified the conspiracy early on.”
Deputy governor Stephen Forde said the sentence “shows how seriously the courts view corruption by those in positions of authority, and should serve as a clear deterrent”.
