It’s hard to imagine how someone convicted of such horrific crimes could be granted what seem like everyday comforts inside prison walls.
Yet, that’s exactly what’s happening with Axel Rudakubana, the 18-year-old serving a 52-year sentence for the brutal murders of three young girls.
Despite attacking a prison guard just weeks ago by throwing scalding water, Rudakubana is reportedly still allowed to buy snacks like Maltesers and crisps inside HMP Belmarsh.
Snack Orders and Family Contact Continue Despite Violent Incident
According to sources close to the prison, Rudakubana has been able to spend around £5.50 a week on treats delivered directly to his cell.
This includes popular snacks such as Pringles and Maltesers, as long as the items aren’t considered dangerous.
On top of that, he continues to receive visits from family, make phone calls, and even get money sent to him while incarcerated in the high-security south-east London prison.
Restrictions Imposed But Basic Privileges Remain
Since the terrifying attack on the guard, Rudakubana’s privileges have been somewhat restricted.
He’s been placed on a ‘basic’ regime, meaning no TV access and limited time outside his cell.
Items like butter and baby oil, which could potentially be used to cause harm, have been banned from his purchases.
Despite this, prison officers – some of whom work alongside the guard he attacked – still have to collect and deliver his canteen orders directly to his cell.
Politicians and Public Outcry Over Perceived Leniency
The ongoing access to such privileges hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick didn’t hold back in condemning the situation, calling Rudakubana a ‘monster’ and describing the fact that he retains these privileges as a ‘disgrace’.
Jenrick urged that all privileges should be stripped from Rudakubana immediately without hesitation, emphasizing that it’s the very least that the victims and their families deserve.
He also warned that regaining control in prisons is crucial to prevent further harm to prison officers.
Religious Visits and Concerns for Prisoner Safety
Despite his violent behavior, Rudakubana has reportedly received visits from an imam, reflecting his religious rights.
However, over fears he could become a target from other inmates, he has since been barred from participating in religious gatherings inside the prison.
The Brutal Attack and Its Aftermath
Earlier this month, it was revealed that Rudakubana’s attack involved boiling water, which may have been mixed with sugar to worsen injuries.
The prison guard who was the victim of this attack was hospitalized as a precaution but was released the same day and returned to work shortly after.
Prisoner Placement and Security Context
Rudakubana is currently held in the same secure unit as Hashem Abedi, the Manchester Arena terrorist who also assaulted prison guards in a different facility last month.
The Prison Service has declined to comment on individual prisoners but continues to face scrutiny over how such dangerous offenders are managed behind bars.