End of lockdown and search at Matsqui Institution

April 24, 2025 – Abbotsford, British Columbia – Correctional Service Canada

The lockdown put in place at Matsqui Institution on April 14, 2025, has ended and the exceptional search has been completed. The institution has resumed its normal operations and visits have resumed.

During the exceptional search, contraband and unauthorized items were found.

The contraband and unauthorized items seized included unidentified pills and other drug paraphernalia, several home‑made weapons, and tattoo paraphernalia.

The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is strengthening measures to prevent the entry of contraband into its institutions in order to ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone. CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to have contraband brought into correctional institutions.