Prison staff fear inmates will use 3D printer lessons to make weapons

Prisoners are being taught how to use a 3D printer — sparking fears they could use it to make a gun or keys.

The gadget works by forcing molten plastic through nozzles to match a design on a computer.

Getty - Contributor

The move has sparked fears prisoners could misuse the tech[/caption]

And it is as easy to use as a regular printer.

A report by the Independent Monitoring Board reveals Wayland prison in Norfolk is the first in the UK to gain a 3D printer.

It says: “It’s important that educational opportunities are relevant to retaining employment.”

But one jail worker said: “Prisoners are a cunning bunch and will use whatever they’re given to gain some advantage.

“My worry is that the printer will be used to make keys and we’ll have an escape on our hands.

“Or worse, they’ll make a weapon on it and use it to attack another inmate or an officer.”

---

• GOT a story? Ring The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or email exclusive@the-sun.co.uk

---