Prisoner allegedly assaulted four prison staff

An Otago Corrections Facility prisoner allegedly assaulted four Department of Corrections officers yesterday afternoon.

Prison manager Jack Harrison said the incident occurred after the man returned from court.

"The situation was brought under control quickly and the prisoner is now secure."

Staff members received minor bruising and were being supported, he said.

The incident had been referred to police, with charges likely.

"Corrections takes the issue of violence in prisons extremely seriously and our priority is staff safety. We will not tolerate prisoners using violence against anyone, and the prisoner involved will be held to account for his actions."