In a startling security lapse that has raised serious questions about prison protocols, an inmate serving time for robbery managed to briefly escape from HMP Wandsworth on Tuesday before being apprehended hours later.
The incident occurred at approximately 07:45 BST when Brahim Kaddour Cherif, 30, was discovered missing during routine checks at the Category B men's prison in southwest London.
Dramatic Recapture Operation
Following an intensive manhunt involving multiple police units, Cherif was located and arrested in the West London area at around 11:30 BST. The Metropolitan Police confirmed his detention came after officers responded to a sighting report from a vigilant member of the public.
A police spokesperson stated: "We are pleased to confirm the prisoner has been safely returned to custody. Our officers responded swiftly to information received from the public, which was crucial in locating the individual."
Background of the Escapee
Court records reveal Cherif was serving a four-year and three-month sentence imposed at Inner London Crown Court in October 2023 for robbery offences. The circumstances surrounding his temporary freedom remain under active investigation by both prison authorities and police forces.
Security Concerns Raised
This incident marks another security concern for HMP Wandsworth, which has faced previous scrutiny over safety measures and operational procedures. The Category B facility, which houses approximately 1,600 inmates, has been the subject of multiple inspection reports highlighting various operational challenges.
The Prison Service issued a brief statement confirming they are "working with the police to investigate how this security breach occurred" and emphasised their commitment to "ensuring lessons are learned from this incident."
This escape and rapid recapture operation comes amid ongoing discussions about prison security across the UK's correctional system and the effectiveness of current prevention measures.
