Seizure of contraband at Matsqui Institution

January 6, 2023 – Abbotsford, British Columbia – Correctional Service Canada

On January 4, 2023, correctional officers at Matsqui Institution, a medium-security federal institution, intercepted an inmate who was attempting to bring contraband into the institution.

This seizure is the result of the combined efforts of correctional officers, detector dog team, and security intelligence officers. The contraband seized included MDMA, cocaine and methamphetamines/fentanyl. The total institutional value of this seizure is estimated at $10,900.

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 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 to ensure the information shared is protected and callers remain anonymous.