More than 130 detainees have been moved to other prisons after a fire broke out on Saturday evening in the laundry room of a prison wing at PI Vught. The Custodial Institutions Agency, known as DJI, said the whole unit, which held 162 prisoners, was evacuated because of water damage.
Some prisoners were given places elsewhere in PI Vught. Places in other prisons were arranged for 132 prisoners.
The last evacuees left at 7.00am on Sunday. All transferred detainees were taken away by the Transport and Support Service, known as DV&O.
Site director Carla Wijnhoven called the operation a major task during the Pentecost weekend. “Everyone worked extremely hard. Colleagues in Vught, staff in other institutions and DV&O all helped. The detainees involved were understanding and cooperated very well. I am very proud of everyone and pleased with the smooth and professional cooperation. Together, we overcame this crisis.”
According to DJI, the operation lasted all evening and night. The fire was put out by the fire service. DJI cannot yet say how serious the water damage is or when the cells can be used again.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
