More Mountjoy prison officers are expected to be questioned by gardai over allegations of brutality by a prisoner who received face and head injuries during a riot in the jail in October.
Two prison officers who were arrested by gardai yesterday morning were released later from Mountjoy Garda Station after questioning. They were arrested under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, which allowed for their detention for questioning for 12 hours. Another officer was arrested last month and another two are expected to be questioned at a later date.
A number of prisoners has also been questioned by detectives about the allegations.
The investigation is being carried out by gardai from the Dublin North Central Division who are expected to question as many as 30 prisoners and a similar number of prison officers. There is also an internal prison investigation.
The investigations began after Mr Colm Fogarty (26) was admitted to the Mater Hospital with a fractured jaw. Several prison officers and prisoners also received treatment for minor injuries.
The injuries occurred when a row between two prisoners in the remand wing of the prison on September 18th escalated into a riot.
The prisoners, who were on a recreation period, are said to have attacked prison officers with cues and balls from pool tables.
The prison's riot squad, known as the control and restraint team, was summoned and subdued the violence.
Mr Fogarty, who is awaiting trial on larceny charges, claims he was kicked in the face during the period when the riot was being subdued. A Garda investigation was begun after initial statements were taken by prison staff and prisoners.
Forensic tests have been carried out on the area of the prison where the trouble occurred and on the prison van used to take Mr Fogarty to hospital.
A file on the investigation is being prepared for submission to the Director of Public Prosecutions, who will decide if assault charges are to be brought.