High-security prisons are meant to be among the most controlled and secure environments in any country. But behind bars in several UK facilities, alarming reports have emerged suggesting a terrifying power shift. Islamist gangs are allegedly operating unchecked, enforcing a regime of fear not only among fellow inmates but also over prison staff — and forcing non-Muslim inmates to convert or face violence.

This chilling trend is raising serious concerns about the safety of prison personnel, the protection of vulnerable inmates, and the growing influence of radical ideologies behind bars.

A Shadow Regime Inside the Prison Walls

Sources inside multiple Category A prisons say Islamist gangs are running “parallel systems of authority,” where prison rules are routinely ignored, and the real power lies with gang leaders. These radicalised inmates are said to be exploiting the weak infrastructure, poor staff-to-inmate ratios, and increasing staff shortages to assert their control.

According to several whistleblower guards and ex-prisoners, new non-Muslim inmates are often given a brutal choice: convert to Islam and join the gang’s ranks, or suffer beatings, isolation, and daily threats. In some cases, physical assaults, psychological torment, and extortion are used as tools of coercion.

One former inmate described it bluntly:

“You’re either with them or against them. If you’re against them, you’re in for a nightmare. I saw men get cornered and forced to pray just to avoid another beating.”

Staff Under Siege

The problem doesn’t end with inmates. Staff members — particularly younger and inexperienced guards — have reported being intimidated or manipulated by radicalised prisoners who operate with military-like discipline and a network of loyalties. Some officers have allegedly been too afraid to intervene in gang-related incidents for fear of retaliation.

An anonymous prison officer revealed:

“There’s a sense that we’ve lost control. These gangs are so organised and ruthless that even seasoned staff tread carefully. It’s not uncommon for officers to look the other way just to avoid conflict.”

Recruitment and Radicalisation

Radicalised inmates often target those who are isolated, mentally vulnerable, or lacking protection inside the prison system. These new recruits are drawn in with offers of safety, a sense of belonging, and brotherhood — but this protection comes with a cost. It starts with prayer, then stricter dress codes, and soon leads to ideological indoctrination.

The tactic mirrors the grooming processes seen in terrorist organisations outside prison walls — only now, it’s happening under the noses of prison authorities.

A Broken System?

Experts say the system is failing to monitor and prevent the rise of radical networks in prisons. Despite past warnings and isolated crackdowns, overcrowding, underfunding, and a lack of de-radicalisation programs have created the perfect breeding ground for extremism.

Security analyst Robert Lane said:

“Prisons are supposed to be places of rehabilitation, not radicalisation. If these gangs continue to operate unchecked, we risk exporting even more dangerous individuals back into society.”

Government Response?

The Ministry of Justice has acknowledged “isolated incidents” but denies that extremist groups hold significant power in prisons. A spokesperson said steps have been taken to identify and isolate radical influencers and protect vulnerable inmates.

However, many insiders believe these efforts are insufficient and too slow to address the growing crisis.

As Islamist gangs expand their grip on prison populations, many are asking: How much longer can authorities afford to turn a blind eye?

If action isn’t taken soon, experts warn that prisons could become recruitment centres for future terrorists — and the cost of inaction may be far greater than the authorities are willing to admit.