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Prisoners have been smashing up parts of HMP Birmingham after overpowering guards, according to sources.

Various sources have contacted the Mail about incidents at L, M and P wing claiming staff lost control, keys were taken and inmates have run riot.

The Mail is awaiting official response – G4S, which operates the prison is expected to issue a statement – but several sources have outlined details of riots.

Alex Cavendish, of Prison UK, said: “I’m not there but I’ve heard from insider sources but basically as I understand it, there is a major disturbance on N Wing which has now spread to L and M wing.

“Apparently prisoners started by smashing light fittings and wing fire hoses and that is why they cut off the water.

“They tried to get the prisoners back behind doors and as they were trying one officer was threatened with a syringe. Another prisoner came up behind him and snatched keys and broke the security chain.”

West Midlands Police press office says it officers have not been called to the scene, it would be a matter for the Prison Service.

A prison insider previously spoke to the Birmingham Mail about problems at the prison, including drug smuggling.

He said: “Before G4S took over there were lots of experienced staff who were paid good money. Now they’ve got new less experienced staff in who can’t cope.

“Threats, drugs - it’s almost constant. Drones are buzzing all over Winson Green.”