Contraband seizure at Collins Bay Institution results in lockdown

The medium-security unit at Collins Bay Institution is currently on lockdown after a package containing contraband and unauthorized items was seized.

The seizure took place at approximately 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2018, and was the “result of the vigilance of staff members,” according to a press release from Correctional Service Canada (CSC) and Collins Bay Institution.

The medium-security unit was placed on lockdown to allow staff to conduct a general search, which was ordered to “ensure the safety and security of the institution, its staff and inmates,” the press release said.

Visits have been suspended until the search is completed. Police have been notified and the institution is investigating the incident.

Normal operations will resume as soon as it is considered safe to do so.

The following is a message from CSC:

“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.”