Prison officer suspended in drugs investigation

A prison officer at a high-security Antrim jail has been suspended while police investigate alleged drugs offences, it was confirmed today.

The 44-year-old man was arrested by police at Maghaberry jail in Co Antrim on Monday, but has been released on bail pending further inquiries.

He has not been charged.

Today a Prison Service spokesman said: “The Prison Service can confirm that a 44-year-old male prison officer was arrested by police at Maghaberry (on May 18).

“He has been suspended from duty as a precautionary measure.

“As this investigation is ongoing, the Prison Service cannot make any further comment at this time.”