Ambulances called to HMP Ranby over drugs after inmates’ deaths – sources

East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) said it attended Ranby on Tuesday – the day before the inmates’ deaths – and Wednesday. A spokesperson confirmed it had also received a call on Thursday.

During the last full inspection of Ranby in February 2025, HM Inspectorate of Prisons found 23% of prisoners tested positive for drugs, and a quarter said they had developed a drug or alcohol habit while serving their sentence.

In a report at the time, Charlie Taylor, chief inspector of prisons, said: “The influx of drones bringing large amounts of contraband into this East Midlands Category C prison was affecting outcomes for prisoners in many areas.”

A Nottinghamshire Police spokesperson said: “No arrests have been made as of yet, and our investigation is still ongoing.

“We are working with the Prison Ombudsman and HMP Ranby, and a file has been prepared for the coroner.”

The Prison and Probation Ombudsman (PPO) confirmed it had been informed of the deaths.

A spokesperson for the PPO added: “The deaths will be investigated individually, however, we have allocated then to the same investigator to ensure we consider any wider, systemic issues at Ranby, as well as if there is a connection between them.”