Dr Ju Young Um, a 34-year-old anaesthetist, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after being found guilty of 23 voyeurism charges. The Glasgow Sheriff Court heard how Um installed hidden cameras inside air fresheners and a smoke alarm in his Hyndland property, which he partially rented out on Airbnb. The devices were strategically placed to capture individuals in private situations, leading to the recording of over 24 people over a span of more than three years.

The discovery of the cameras was prompted by a victim who noticed the unusual positioning of two air fresheners in the bathroom. Upon closer inspection, hidden cameras were found inside the plastic containers, and a subsequent search revealed a third camera concealed within a smoke alarm. The victim's report to the police led to the seizure of the cameras, along with a mobile phone, laptop, and storage device containing recordings of several individuals.

Further investigations uncovered that Um had also covertly filmed people in private situations within staff accommodation at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary. Fraser Gibson, the procurator fiscal for Glasgow and Strathkelvin, described Um's actions as calculated and premeditated, emphasizing the breach of trust and the significant violation of privacy for his own sexual gratification.

In addition to the prison sentence, Um has been placed on the sex offenders register for 10 years and will remain on licence for a further nine months following his release, during which time he will be subject to close monitoring and supervision. The case highlights the severe consequences of violating privacy and the importance of vigilance in shared and rented accommodations.

The recent spate of violent attacks on prison officers across England and Wales has sparked urgent calls for action to ensure their safety. Incidents at HMP Woodhill and HMP Gartree, where officers sustained serious injuries, have highlighted the escalating dangers faced by staff in the prison service. The Prison Officers' Association (POA) has emphasized the need for immediate measures to protect its members, warning that without swift action, the consequences could be fatal.

At HMP Woodhill, a specialist officer was slashed in the neck and ear with an improvised weapon, requiring hospital treatment. Meanwhile, at HMP Gartree, a female officer suffered a broken arm after an inmate faked a seizure and threw a television at her colleague. These incidents underscore the volatile environment within prisons, where officers are increasingly at risk from unpredictable and violent behavior by inmates.

The POA has reiterated its demand for a review of prison regimes and enhanced protection for officers. POA general secretary Steve Gillan has voiced concerns over the 'out of control' levels of violence, urging authorities to address the issue before it leads to a fatality. The association's calls for action reflect a growing unease about the safety of prison staff and the adequacy of current measures to protect them.

As investigations into the attacks continue, the prison service faces mounting pressure to implement reforms that will safeguard its officers. The recent incidents serve as a stark reminder of the challenges within the prison system and the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to combat violence and ensure the well-being of those on the front lines.