Detainees set fire to centre in rampage
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Detainees at an immigration centre in Oxfordshire went on the rampage on Wednesday night, setting fire to the building and smashing windows.
Five men were taken to hospital with minor injuries after a fracas in the dining room of Campsfield House, the holding centre in Kidlington which was the scene of protests by residents two months ago.
About 20 to 30 detainees were said to have taken part in last night's disturbance, smashing a dozen large windows and lighting a fire in a corridor near the laundry room. However, staff in riot gear quickly restored order.
There were fears that the centre's 180 residents would have to be moved if fire damage proved too severe.
A spokesman for Group 4, which runs the centre, said he did not know the reason for the disturbance.
But an insider said: "These facilities are volatile, difficult environments to manage. People don't like being detained."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments