‘Disturbance’ at immigration removal centre following power outage

A group of people at an immigration removal centre in west London caused a “disturbance” on Friday night following a power outage, the Home Office has said.

No one was injured during the incident at Harmondsworth detention centre near Heathrow Airport, but the power was still out just before 9am on Saturday, the department said.

A group of detainees left their rooms and went out into the courtyard area armed with various weaponry, according to a claim earlier made by the Home Office.

Police, fire and HM Prison services are at the scene.

A Home Office spokesperson added: “There has been a power outage at Harmondsworth immigration removal centre, and work is currently under way to resolve this issue.

“We are aware of a disturbance at the centre and the appropriate authorities have been notified and are on scene.

“The welfare and safety of staff and individuals detained at Harmondsworth is our key priority.”