Security has been stepped up at Westgate prison after an attempted breach of the perimeter fence.

Wayne Caines, the Minister of National Security, said on Thursday that inmates involved in the attempt would be penalised.

He said: “The Ministry can confirm there was an attempted breach of the Westgate Correctional Facility perimeter. Corrections Officers responded accordingly.

“Let me remind and stress that those who violate the law will be prosecuted. And the individuals involved in this attempt are awaiting disciplinary action.

“I can advise that the Department of Corrections have increased their security measures around the perimeter and will continue to manage and minimise such risks.”

According to a ZBM news report, four inmates were arrested after they were caught attempting to smuggle contraband into the prison last week.

ZBM also reported that “sometime within the last few days”, another package was intercepted with a suspect said to have been seen leaving the area on a jet ski.