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Two inmates die and prison is in lockdown as a 'bad batch' of spice sweeps through HMP Ranby in Nottinghamshire

HMP Ranby, near Retford, where last October's inspection warned drugs were a "considerable concern" and urged investment in physical security to stop contraband entering via drones.
HMP Ranby, near Retford, where last October's inspection warned drugs were a "considerable concern" and urged investment in physical security to stop contraband entering via drones.

Up to 14 "code blue" alarms sounded over two days at HMP Ranby, near Retford, after inmates were found unconscious, not breathing, or overdosing on what is reportedly a contaminated batch of synthetic cannabis. Four ambulances responded on Tuesday; an air ambulance and three additional units followed on Wednesday morning. Det Insp James Oakton of Nottinghamshire Police confirmed that a formal investigation is under way.

Inspectors warned in February 2025 that 23% of Ranby's prisoners tested positive for drugs, with a quarter developing a habit inside.

A previous inspection flagged that drones were being used to smuggle drugs in, and called the prison service's physical security investment inadequate.

HMP Ranby has been placed on full lockdown, with officers conducting multiple sweeps of the wing to check for further casualties.

MoreBBC News - EnglandPolice launch investigation after two inmates die in Nottinghamshire prisonThe Independent'Contaminated drugs' kill two inmates and harm others as prison goes into lockdown - The IndependentThe IndependentPrison in lockdown as ‘bad drugs batch’ kills two inmates in major incidentAOL.comPolice launch inquiry after two inmates die in prison - AOL.com
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