After a suspected drone drop, Correctional Service Canada (CSC) says more than $60,000 worth of marijuana and tobacco was seized at Warkworth Institution.
The seizure is unrelated to a recent lockdown put in place at the medium-security federal institution, the CSC also noted on Friday.
The CSC is again crediting the vigilance of staff for the seizure involving a package containing contraband and unauthorized items. The seizure was on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.
The total estimated institutional value of the seizure is $66,660, said the CSC, on Friday.
The CSC said it continues to use a number of tools to prevent drugs from entering institutions – such tools include ion scanners and drug-detector dogs to search buildings, personal property, inmates, and visitors.
The CSC is also working on heightening measures to prevent contraband from entering institutions, and work continues in partnership with police to take action against those who attempt to introduce contraband into facilities, reads a recent release.
A telephone tipline remains in place for all institutions where information about activities relating to security and safety can be shared anonymously. The toll-free number is 1-866-780-3784.
As previously reported, a lockdown was initiated at the Warkworth facility on Wednesday, July 31. On Friday afternoon, officials said the lockdown remains in place, and further communication will be issued when the lockdown is lifted.
The lockdown was put in place to enable staff to conduct an “exceptional search.”
The CSC said the search was ordered to ensure the safety and security of the institution, staff and inmates.
Visits have been suspended until the search is completed.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
