Police have arrested two additional men in connection with the death of Lostprophets singer Ian Watkins, who died following a stabbing attack at HMP Wakefield prison earlier this month.
The 48-year-old former frontman was serving a 29-year sentence for sexual offences against children when he was fatally attacked.
As per Rolling Stone, West Yorkshire Police confirmed that two men, aged 23 and 39, were arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. The arrests follow the initial charges laid against Rashid (Rico) Gedel, 25, and Samuel Dodsworth, 43, who were arrested just one day after Ian Watkins’ death and charged with murder.
The investigation continues to unfold as authorities examine the circumstances surrounding the attack that claimed the life of the disgraced musician. James Entwistle, a senior investigating officer with West Yorkshire Police, stated: “Extensive enquiries remain ongoing in relation to the murder of Ian Watkins and these arrests form part of that.”
The newly arrested suspects will be interviewed before being bailed and returned to prison while the investigation progresses. Police have indicated that Watkins’ family are being kept informed of developments, though no immediate breakthroughs are anticipated.
This attack was not the first violent incident Watkins faced during his incarceration. In August 2023, three prisoners at HMP Wakefield stabbed the singer and held him hostage for six hours before prison officers successfully intervened to free him.
Before his downfall, Watkins fronted one of Wales’ most successful rock bands. Lostprophets achieved considerable commercial success, selling over 3.4 million albums worldwide with hits including “Last Train Home” and “Rooftops”. The band’s career ended abruptly following Watkins’ arrest in September 2012.
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Police initially targeted Watkins during a drugs search warrant at his residence, where they discovered numerous computers, mobile phones, and storage devices. The investigation that followed revealed evidence of horrific sexual crimes against young children and babies, leading to his conviction in 2013.
During sentencing, the judge described Watkins’ crimes as having “plumbed new depths of depravity,” reflecting the severity of his offences.
