Package with drugs worth $70,000 seized at Matsqui Institution

THE lockdown put in place at Matsqui Institution in Abbotsford on December 22 has ended and an exceptional search has been completed. The institution has resumed its normal operations, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) announced on Tuesday.

Visits to the institution have resumed.

The CSC said that as a result of the vigilance of staff members, a package containing contraband was seized. The contraband seized included methamphetamines, THC, fentanyl and ecstasy. The total estimated institutional value of this seizure is $70,000.

The CSC said it uses a number of tools to prevent drugs from entering its institutions. These tools include ion scanners and drug-detector dogs to search buildings, personal property, inmates and visitors.

CSC is heightening measures to prevent contraband from entering its institutions in order to help ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone. CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to introduce contraband into correctional institutions.

CSC has set up a telephone tip line for all federal institutions so that it may receive additional information about activities relating to security at CSC institutions. These activities may be related to drug use or trafficking that may threaten the safety and security of visitors, inmates and staff members working at CSC institutions.

The toll-free number, 1‑866‑780‑3784, helps ensure that the information shared is protected and that callers remain anonymous.