Regina Coeli prison riot in Rome leaves seven officers injured

A riot and fire broke out in the fifth section of the Regina Coeli prison in Rome on Thursday, October 1. The incident, which occurred in a wing housing detainees requiring special management, resulted in injuries to seven prison police officers and three detainees.

Following the fire, approximately 30 inmates were urgently transferred to other facilities, and the first floor of the section was rendered unusable. Union representatives from FNS CISL Lazio and Osapp have criticized the incident, highlighting severe systemic issues within the facility.

Reports indicate significant overcrowding and staffing shortages at Regina Coeli. According to Osapp, the prison is housing over 1,000 inmates despite having only 563 available spots, while the prison police force is operating with approximately 405 officers against a required 709. Unions are calling for immediate administrative action to address personnel shortages and ensure the safety of staff and inmates.