Lockdown and Search at Matsqui Institution

Abbotsford, British Columbia, March 12, 2013 – At approximately 10 a.m., on March 11, 2013, Matsqui Institution, a medium-security federal penitentiary, was placed on lockdown to facilitate the search of the living units and common areas as a result of an inmate assault.

The search is being conducted to ensure the ongoing safety and security of the institution, its staff and the inmates. The institution will return to normal routine when it is determined safe to do so.

Regularly scheduled visits to the institution will be affected. Those who have previously scheduled visits are asked to contact the institution directly.

The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is committed to preventing contraband from entering institutions. Our efforts help 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.

In order to improve its practices to prevent and reduce future incidents, CSC will continue to work in an effort to review the circumstances surrounding the incident and take action where necessary.

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For more information, media personnel may contact:

Gordon A. Mattson
Assistant Warden Management Services
Correctional Service Canada
Matsqui Institution
(604) 850-8205