PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) — The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has described as “deeply troubling” the fatal stabbing of a prisoner last weekend during an outbreak of gang violence among inmates at the Twin Island Republic’s Maximum Security Prison .

“The safety and security at all prison facilities across Trinidad and Tobago is a matter of national concern and we are working closely with the prison service to prevent any recurrence. My thoughts are with the family of the deceased and all those affected,” the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Intelligence and Investigations, Suzette Martin, said in a statement following the incident last Saturday.

The TTPS said that the prison department responded swiftly to the situation after receiving reports of unrest inside the facility.

The TTPS said despite efforts to de-escalate the situation, one male inmate sustained multiple stab wounds and was pronounced dead shortly after. Following formal identification and notification of his family, the identity of the deceased inmate will be released.

It said that a full-scale investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding the violence and those responsible will be held accountable.