News Releases

Pacific Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ABBOTSFORD, BC, January 17, 2005 - The lock down of inmates at Matsqui Institution ended at 7 a.m. on January 15. The facility returned to normal operation this morning.

The institution had been locked down to conduct an exceptional search as a result of information with respect to drug activity, the presence of cell phones and ammunition. During the search, one round of ammunition, a cell phone, cell phone charger and two phone headsets were found. Other items seized included, tattoo needles, small amounts of drugs (marijuana, pills), homemade alcohol, and two homemade knives.

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