News Releases

Pacific Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ABBOTSFORD, BC, January 11, 2005 - Inmates at Matsqui Institution were locked in their cells as the institution was placed on lockdown yesterday (January 10) at 4 p.m. to facilitate a search of the institution.

Prior to commencing an exceptional general search of the institution, staff searched specific inmates and their cells. It was during these searches that staff discovered one round of ammunition and a cell phone. Other items seized during the initial searching included a cell phone charger, tattoo needles, small amounts of drugs (marijuana), homemade alcohol, and a homemade knife.

There is also unsubstantiated information about possible escape planning.

Regularly scheduled visits to the institution have been suspended for the duration of the lockdown.

Matsqui Institution is a medium security facility operated by the Correctional Service of Canada. It is located in Abbotsford and has a current population of 270 male offenders.

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For more information, media representatives may contact:

Wayne Marston
Assistant Warden, Management Services
(604) 850-8240