A man in his 60s has been detained after a police officer was critically injured at HMP Frankland, a high-security prison in Durham, this morning (Tuesday, July 23). 

The officer, who is from Greater Manchester Police, sustained one stab wound to his chest whilst a remand prisoner was being interviewed.

Land and air ambulance crews were called to the notorious, category A jail and he was taken to hospital in a critical condition but was talking and conscious, Durham Police said.

A police investigation has been launched. The officer's condition is currently described as "stable". 

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Smiles, who is leading the Durham Police investigation into the stabbing, said: "First and foremost, our thoughts are with our colleague, who suffered appalling injuries while simply doing his job. 

"Thankfully, his condition is no longer critical and we wish him a full and speedy recovery. 

"We are liaising with the victim and his family, and our investigation is ongoing."

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: “An officer from our Major Incident Team was stabbed by an inmate at HM Prison Frankland.

“He was transported to hospital in a critical condition, where he is being treated for his injuries.

“We have made the family aware of this incident and are supporting them through this incredibly difficult time.”

On X, formerly Twitter, Home Secretary Evette Cooper said: "I am appalled that a police officer has been attacked at HMP Frankland this morning. My thoughts are with the officer & his family and I wish him a speedy recovery.

"I am receiving updates from Durham Police as they begin their investigation."

Mary Kelly Foy, Durham City MP, commented: "I’m very concerned about this. My thoughts are with the officer and their family.

"I’m relieved to hear the officer is conscious and talking in hospital. I’m in contact with officials at HMP Frankland."

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Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood added: "Deeply concerning news from HMP Frankland today, where a police officer has been stabbed, though is conscious and talking in hospital.

"I am being kept up-to-date with all developments. And my thoughts are with that brave officer."

HMP Frankland, a high-security, Category A prison, houses 800 of the country's worst offenders. In May the Sun reported that an inmate had attacked a fellow prisoner with a claw hammer.