Emergency response after remand prisoner climbs roof at Otago Corrections Facility

Emergency services have rushed to a South Island prison after an inmate was spotted on the roof this afternoon.

Otago Corrections Facility general manager Dave Miller said that at 12.45pm a remand prisoner accessed the roof of a unit at the prison.

Corrections staff responded immediately to contain the incident and are currently talking to the man.

The area is contained and within the secure perimeter of the prison grounds.

“There is no threat to the wider security of the prison and no threat to public safety,” Miller said.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand are on site with one fire engine as a precaution, given the prisoner is at height.

Police have offered help if needed to the Department of Corrections.

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