Six inmates hospitalised after juvenile centre riot in NSW

A riot has broken out overnight at a juvenile detention centre on the Central Coast with youths targeting other inmates, including some who were detained for sex offences.

Detainees are seen during a riot at the Frank Baxter Juvenile Justice Centre, Kariong, NSW, Monday, July 22, 2019. Source: AAP Image/Dean Lewins)

At least six youths have been hospitalised with some suffering stab wounds from a riot which broke out at the Frank Baxter Juvenile Detention Centre on the NSW Central Coast overnight.

The riot started on Sunday at about 8.30 pm with reports several inmates assaulted each other with makeshift weapons, which they obtained from the facility’s workshed.

It’s understood some of the youths suffered stabbed wounds and several others sustained injuries which include broken legs and arms.

One of those injured is an 18-year-old male, who is currently in a serious condition at the Royal North Shore Hospital, where he is receiving treatment for stab wounds and facial injuries.

Four others, aged between 17 and 20, also suffered stab wounds and have been taken to Gosford Hospital for treatment.

Riot Police are seen during a riot at the Frank Baxter Juvenile Justice Centre, Kariong, NSW, Monday, July 22, 2019. Source: AAP Image/Dean Lewins

Talking to reporters on Monday morning, Superintendent Tony Joice said a group of inmates had armed themselves with makeshift weapons which were used on other inmates.

“It seems a very sudden and unprovoked incident," Supt Joice told reporters on

Monday.

"Identifying the means and reasons why the assaults have taken place is part of the investigation.

“Our numbers would indicate between 10 and 20 inmates are not where they should be at this point in time,” Supt Joice said.

It’s understood around 20 youths aged between 12-18 were involved in the attacks during the rampage, with around 10 inmates climbing onto the centre’s roof.

Reports say they spent the night in freezing-cold temperatures - some of them wielding metal and wooden poles whilst they argued with police.

Initial reports suggested inmates used a chainsaw to break out of their cells, a cla9im which police have since denied. 

A 17-year-old man has been taken to the same hospital after dislocating his ankle when he jumped off a roof.

Another inmate was treated at the scene for a broken nose. All inmates have been accounted for, police said.