Drugs, tobacco, weapons seized after suspected drone drops at Collins Bay Institution

According to the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC), staff at Collins Bay Institution seized multiple packages containing contraband and unauthorized items during the first week of February.

The packages were seized within the perimeter of the medium-security unit, and are suspected to be the result of drone drops, CSC said in a press release on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2020. The items seized included 415 grams of tobacco, one cellphone, two charging cables, four stabbing weapons, and 413.1 grams of marijuana. The total estimated institutional value of these seizures is $44,500. Police have been notified and the Institution is investigating, CSC said.

These seizures took place just two weeks after two men from Mississauga were charged after being located in the area following the discovery of a drone near the facility, and just a week after further charges were laid in that case.

“The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) 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 said in the release.

“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 introduced a complete smoking ban in all federal correctional institutions in 2008.

CSC also has a telephone tip line set up for all federal institutions in order to receive information activities relating to security at all 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,” CSC said.

That number can be reached toll-free at 1-866-780-3784. All information shared is protected, and callers remain anonymous.