Ian Watkins, the convicted child sex offender from Lostprophets, reportedly orchestrated the removal of another inmate from the prison wing shortly before being fatally attacked by a fellow prisoner wielding a blade. Watkins, aged 48, met his demise at HMP Wakefield, where he was serving a lengthy sentence for his crimes.

Two individuals, Rashid Gedel (known as Rico Gedel in court) aged 25, and Samuel Dodsworth, aged 43, are currently standing trial for the murder at Leeds Crown Court. According to Tom Storey KC, the prosecuting attorney, Watkins, being a well-known figure in the prison, had faced accusations the day before regarding his involvement in getting a fellow inmate expelled from the wing.

In a prison environment where vulnerability and grudges are prevalent, Watkins’ notoriety made him a potential target for violence. The prosecution revealed that Watkins had received threatening notes demanding money and hinting at violence, leading up to the fatal attack on him.

During the morning of October 11, Gedel allegedly attacked Watkins in his cell using a makeshift blade, inflicting three wounds, one of which was severe. The prosecution asserts that Dodsworth was complicit in the attack by concealing the weapon post-assault.

Gedel reportedly taunted Watkins as he was being escorted back to his cell, while prison staff struggled to administer aid to the injured victim. The prosecution maintains that both Gedel and Dodsworth played a role in the coordinated attack on Watkins.

The prosecution further detailed Gedel’s behavior after the attack, including his provocative remarks towards Watkins as he was being escorted back to his cell. Watkins, previously convicted in 2013 for various sex offenses, faced further legal trouble for possessing a mobile phone in prison.