On April 13, 2025, a violent attack at HMP Frankland left four prison officers injured, three of whom sustained serious injuries from being assaulted with hot oil and homemade weapons.

As of April 17, 2025, one officer remains hospitalized due to the injuries incurred during the attack.

In the wake of the attack, the Ministry of Justice has suspended access to kitchens in separation units at the prison where the incident occurred.

In response to the incident, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed shock and anger, emphasizing the urgent need for improved protection for prison staff.

The Ministry of Justice has announced an independent review to investigate the attack and assess safety protocols for prison officers, amid calls for enhanced protective equipment.

Mahmood has reiterated her commitment to combating extremism within prisons and ensuring the safety of both staff and the public.

Additionally, an audit will be conducted on the implementation of 230 recommendations from 19 previous reviews concerning extremism in prisons.

The independent review will specifically examine the circumstances of the attack and the operation of separation units in prisons.

A chairperson for the independent review has yet to be appointed, but findings are expected within the next few months.

The Ministry of Justice is also reviewing the potential need for protective body armor for frontline staff following the attack.

The review aims to enhance safety measures in prisons, with findings anticipated in the coming months.

This incident is particularly concerning given Hashem Abedi's background, as he was sentenced to a minimum of 55 years for his role in the Manchester Arena bombing that killed 22 people in 2017.