In 2022, MoJ data shows 34% of those targeted with synthetic Pava spray were Muslims, who make up 18% of prison population
The Ministry of Justice data, obtained from a freedom of information request submitted by the advocacy organisation Maslaha, shows that in 2022, 34% of those targeted with Pava, a synthetic form of pepper spray, were Muslim, despite only making up 18% of the prison population. Pava was drawn and used against Muslim prisoners 188 times in 2022 and was drawn but not used by prison officers 54 times.
Pava causes injury to the eyes, respiratory tract and skin. While in many cases these symptoms are short-lived, the chemical irritants in Pava can cause severe injury, permanent disabilities and,. Pava was introduced into prisons in England and Wales in 2018, and by July 2023 had been rolled out into 89 prisons.
“Whatever we believe in, however we practise our religion, we all have the right to be treated with dignity and respect. But our work with Muslims in prison makes it clear that harmful stereotypes about Muslims are rife in prisons, and are putting Muslim prisoners at risk of unfair and harmful treatment.