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Around '100 Inmates Escape After Hurricane Irma Destroys Prison'

Around '100 Inmates Escape After Hurricane Irma Destroys Prison'

The prison on the British Virgin Islands has been partially destroyed.

Claire Reid

Claire Reid

Over 100 inmates have reportedly escaped from a prison on the British Virgin Islands after it was partially destroyed by Hurricane Irma.

According to Sky, between 100 and 120 prisoners managed to flee their cells after the hurricane battered the island and ravaged the prison.

The exact number of prisoners is yet to be confirmed.

The British Virgin Islands have been hard-hit by Hurricane Irma with widespread destruction, a shortage of water and residents left without homes.

Natalie Drury, a resident of the British Virgin Islands, told the Guardian: "I can't believe my eyes. I can't even begin to describe the utter devastation around. It feels like nothing is left.

Home and businesses have been destroyed across the island. Credit: PA

"It's worse than anyone could have imagined. The country is going to need some serious help. I have no idea how many people have died. We were told yesterday it's gone up to 10, but obviously, that's all rumours. Nobody knows yet."

The UK is now sending troops over to help out, Michael Fallon, the defence secretary, has said that around 500 troops have been sent to out to the Caribbean and that the relief operation is 'well underway'.

A spokesperson from the Ministry of Defence said: "By the end of the evening there will be well over 100 marines and troops on the island, their priority will be establishing security and law and order before providing humanitarian assistance before the arrival of Hurricane Jose."

The British Virgin Islands have been battered by Hurricane Irma. Credit: PA

At least 27 people are reported to have died after the powerful hurricane hit several islands in the Caribbean over the past few days.

It is now heading towards Florida and could be the worst storm the state has ever seen; 6.3 million Floridians have been told to evacuate.

Hurricane Irma was briefly lowered to a catagory three storm yesterday, however the National Hurricane Centre has since said it was back up to a catagory five.

Sources: Sky; The Guardian

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Hurricane Irma, hurricane, Florida, Prison, US