Inmate dead after assault at Auckland prison

December 21, 2023

Serco has confirmed a prisoner assaulted two others at the Kohuora Auckland South Corrections Facility in Wiri. (Source: 1News)

An inmate at an Auckland prison has died after an assault.

The death occurred after a prisoner assaulted two others while working at a kitchen at the Serco-run Kohuora Auckland South Corrections Facility in Wiri.

Police have notified the man's next-of-kin.

A second prisoner was also in hospital being treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Police at the Kohuora Auckland South Corrections Facility

"The perpetrator has been secured, segregated and will be transferred to another prison," a Serco spokesperson said in a statement.

"Police are currently at the prison and are actively investigating.

"Serco will ensure that all evidence, including CCTV footage, is provided to police."

Homicide investigation underway

Detective Inspector Warrick Adkin said police were notified at about 11.40am of an incident at the prison and a homicide investigation has been launched.

"Another man has been injured and transported to hospital in a serious condition," Adkin said in a statement.

"One person is assisting police with our enquiries. Police remain at the site, and we will be working with the Department of Corrections as part of our investigation."

He added police would provide a further update in due course.

Kohuora Auckland South Corrections Facility

The Serco spokesperson said the company would also carry out a review.

"Staff and other prisoners are being provided with support."

The spokesperson added assaults in prison were illegal, unacceptable and "we do not tolerate them".

"Any perpetrators should expect to face criminal charges as well as prison disciplinary processes. All incidents are reported to the police. We will cooperate fully with all investigations into this incident."

The Serco spokesperson noted all deaths in custody are referred to the Coroner for investigation and to determine the cause of death.

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