Prison employee arrested in drug supply probe

There have now been four arrests made in an investigation into drug supply at Parc prison

A prison staff member has been arrested in connection with drug dealing offences at HMP Parc in Bridgend.

Detectives from the regional organised crime unit for south Wales, investigating the supply of drugs in the area, have arrested a 36-year-old man from North Cornelly, Bridgend county, on suspicion of conveying contraband into a prison.

He has been bailed pending further enquiries.

In March, three arrests were made in connection with suspected drug supply into the prison.

A 40-year-old man from Birmingham and a 34-year-old woman from Penylan, Cardiff, were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply controlled drugs and money laundering and later released under investigation.

A 34-year-old man, also from Penylan in Cardiff, was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of controlled drugs. He was released on conditional bail pending further enquiries.

South Wales Police said the latest arrest was not linked to any investigation into deaths at the prison.

Nine people have died at the jail since the start of February, with at least four linked to substance misuse.

An HMP Parc spokesperson said one of its employees was arrested on Tuesday following a "joint operation" with the police force.

"We expect the highest standards of conduct from our employees, and if we suspect any form of wrongdoing, we will take swift action," they said.

"Where there is any suspicion of illegal behaviour, we will always share intelligence with the police and other agencies."