17 Waikeria inmates accused over prison riot keep name suppression

A group of 17 face charges including intentionally damaging by fire, using weapons to unlawfully enter parts of Waikeria Prison and unlawfully damaging property. Photo / File

Inmates accused over the riot over New Year at Waikeria Prison will keep their identities secret for now.

A group of 17 face charges including intentionally damaging by fire, using weapons to unlawfully enter parts of the prison and unlawfully damaging property.

Many of the co-accused appeared in Hamilton District Court today but were remanded in custody without entering a plea.

The riot consumed the prison’s high-security complex from December 29 to January 3.

It was the biggest prison riot in New Zealand for decades.

The destruction of Waikeria’s high-security complex required more than 200 inmates to be moved to other prisons.

On January 3, the unruly prisoners surrendered and received food, water and access to medical staff.

Related articles