Detainee Climbs Ceiling and Damages It at Nitzan Detention Center's Mental Health Unit

An unusual incident occurred on Sunday at the Nitzan Detention Center when a detainee climbed into the ceiling space of the mental health corridor and broke part of the acoustic ceiling. Guards quickly intervened, subdued the detainee, and transferred him to a cell. According to the Israel Prison Service spokesperson, the detainee took advantage of his time in the mental health corridor to climb into the ceiling, causing damage. The guards present recognized the situation immediately and acted to regain control without any risk of escape.

Following the event, disciplinary measures were taken against the detainee. The Central District Commander, Brigadier General Shlomi Shagai, ordered the appointment of an investigating officer to examine the circumstances and handling of the incident. This investigation will also review existing procedures and supervision of detainees in the mental health unit.

This event adds to a series of unusual incidents in Israeli detention facilities in recent months. Recently, a dangerous drug smuggling attempt was foiled at the Tzalmon Prison, where suspected drugs were found sewn into clothes delivered to an inmate. There has also been an increase in operational activity by the Prison Service to prevent smuggling and other incidents, including uncovering a drone smuggling explosives and weapons in a joint police and prison service operation.

The Israel Prison Service emphasized its ongoing commitment to security in detention centers through operational, technological, and intelligence measures. The findings from the investigation at Nitzan are expected to lead to improved procedures and oversight in mental health units within detention facilities.