PRISON OVERCROWDING FORCES TEMPORARY USE OF POLICE CELLS – The emergency measure isĀ known as Operation Safeguard
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has confirmed that prisoners will be temporarily housed in police cells as prisons near full capacity.
The emergency measure, known as Operation Safeguard, is activated when prison populations reach critical levels. The initiative will free up 200 cells and is expected to last for two months, though it may be extended depending on population levels.
The announcement comes ahead of the opening of HMP Millsike, a new prison near York set to add 1,500 spaces, easing pressure on the system.
Despite nearing full capacity, the MoJ maintains that space remains available. Recent figures show the prison population has reached a six-month high, with 87,556 inmates in custody. The male prison estate is currently operating at over 99% capacity.
This is not the first time Operation Safeguard has been implemented; it was previously triggered in May 2024 and February 2023 due to high demand.
To address overcrowding, the government has outlined plans to create 14,000 additional prison places by 2031 through new prisons, expanded facilities, and temporary cells.
