An additional two men have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder in relation to the death of ex-Lostprophets vocalist Ian Watkins. The disgraced musician was murdered on October 11th while serving out a prison sentence of 29 years with an extended license of six years at HMP Wakefield in West Yorkshire, England. Watkins was given that sentence after being found guilty of various child-related sexual offences back in 2013.
In the days after his death, two inmates were arrested and charged with murder. They included the 25-year-old Rashid Gedel and the 43-year-old Samuel Dodsworth. A statement issued today, October 21st, via the West Yorkshire Police regarding the latest development in the case reads as follows:
“Detectives investigating the murder of Ian Watkins at HMP Wakefield on Saturday 11 October have made two further arrests.
Two men aged 23 and 39 have been arrested from HMP Wakefield on suspicion of conspiracy to murder.
They are both in police custody and will be interviewed over the course of today, they will then be bailed and returned to prison while enquiries continue.
Last week two men were charged with murder in relation to the incident, they are on remand awaiting trial.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle of the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team said: ‘Extensive enquiries remain ongoing in relation to the murder of Ian Watkins and these arrests form part of that. Ian Watkins’ family are being updated as the investigation progresses. However, we do not anticipate any immediate developments at this stage.'”
Per The Sun, Watkins was allegedly shanked in the neck by a fellow inmate, leading to his death. Watkins was previously beaten and stabbed in prison over alleged drug debts back in 2023. Lostprophets dissolved upon Watkins‘ original arrest, with his bandmates being aghast upon finding out the nature of his crimes. The group claimed to have no prior knowledge of his horrific activities.
