Two inmates remain in a critical condition and at least one prison guard has been treated for burns after a fire broke out at Cessnock Gaol last night.
The blaze started in a maximum security cell just after 8pm - the two inmates aged 21 and 24 were flown to the Burns Unit at Sydney's Royal North Shore Hospital by the Hunter's Westpac Rescue Helicopter and the Ambulance Rescue Helicopter.
Police say 12 prison officers and staff needed treatment including for smoke inhalation.
Corrective Services Commissioner, Peter Severin says it's believed the fire started when bed linen and clothing were set alight.
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| One of the inmates is loaded into the Ambulance Rescue helicopter |
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| Fire crews leave Cessnock Gaol after extinguishing the fire Photos courtesy Fairfax media. |
