HMP Parc, which was previously judged as one of the most successful prisons, suffered a serious decline in standards due to a failure to tackle the illicit drugs.

A total of 17 inmates are known to have died at G4S-run Parc in 2024. 

Last month, South Wales Police confirmed the sudden death of a 49-year-old man at the Bridgend prison on March 1 and leaked messages from the prison have recently revealed staff laughing at beating inmates and joking about self-harm.

Following an inspection in January, an HM Inspectorate of Prisons report said that the transition to a new management contract at the large category C jail in Bridgend, south Wales, was at the root of many of its problems.

Chief Inspector Charlie Taylor said: “Practically, if G4S and the prison service are able to expedite the replacement of windows which are vulnerable to drone deliveries and to provide enhanced gate security, that will help to reduce supply of drugs. 

“If the current director remains in place and he receives the support he needs from the provider and the prison service, then there can be optimism that the early signs of improvement at this important prison can begin to be consolidated and sustained.”

Howard League for Penal Reform’s chief executive Andrea Coomber KC said: “According to the most recent figures, Parc prison currently holds 239 people more than it is able to safely house.  

“We cannot address these issues until a concerted effort is made to significantly reduce prison numbers."

The Ministry of Justice was contacted for comment.