February 8, 2010

Incident At Yarlswood Immigration Detention Centre

Bedfordshire Police were called by staff at Yarlswood Immigration Detention Centre at 1.30pm today (Monday 8 Feb) following reports of minor disorder involving a small number of detainees.

The police helicopter flew over the area at lunchtime for assessment purposes but has since left.

As of 2pm today (Monday 8 Feb) all detainees were described as calm and talking with Yarlswood staff to address their concerns. The incident is completely contained within the compound. Police officers, including dog units, are on stand by outside the perimeter fence of the compound and will not be involved unless requested directly.

Local residents’ representatives will be kept in informed by Safer Neighbourhood Team officers.