Drugs and cell phones with an institutional value of nearly $1 million were seized from a maximum-security facility in northeast Edmonton, according to the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC).
The CSC says crystal methamphetamine, THC and cell phones – which it describes as contraband and unauthorized items – were seized at Edmonton Institution on Aug. 19.
Officials estimate the institutional value of the items seized at $917,400. The Edmonton Police Service was notified.
The CSC says “vigilance of staff members” led to the seizure, without providing more details. The facility is investigating.
“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,” the agency said in a news release.
The CSC says it is “heightening measures” to prevent contraband and unauthorized items from entering its institutions, including setting up a telephone tip line for information about activities relating to security.