UK prisons face allegations of forced religious conversions

Data released by Shadow Justice Minister Nick Timothy reveals significant demographic shifts and security concerns within prisons in England and Wales. According to Ministry of Justice figures, Muslims now account for approximately 18% of the prison population, a figure notably higher than their 6.5% share of the general population.

Reports indicate that Islamist groups within the prison system, led by individuals calling themselves ‘Emirs’, are allegedly forcing white prisoners to convert to Islam. These conversions are reportedly achieved through a combination of coercion, threats of violence, and small favors such as extra food. Some inmates reportedly convert to avoid extortion or to seek protection.

The data shows that one in five Muslims in these prisons is white, which is nearly four times the 5.8% proportion of white Muslims in the general population. The number of white Muslims in prison has reportedly increased by 16% since 2022. In response to these findings, calls have been made for a formal investigation into the loss of control within prison wings and the recruitment tactics used by these groups.