News Releases

Pacific Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ABBOTSFORD, BC, January 10, 2008 - Correctional staff are conducting an exceptional search at Matsqui Institution in Abbotsford following a number of incidents, including inmate assaults.

The institution's main living unit has been locked down since 5:30 p.m. on January 9.

There have been six inmate assaults in the past week at the institution. The last three assaults occurred yesterday afternoon. Some suspects have been identified and have been moved to segregation cells.

There also have been numerous discoveries of contraband in the last week including sharp-edged weapons, homemade brew, significant amounts of steroids, syringes and two balaclavas.

Regularly scheduled visits to the institution have been suspended for the duration of the lockdown. Scheduled private family visits are continuing.

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 342 male offenders.

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For more information, media representatives may contact:

Marie Shepherd
A/Assistant Warden Management Services
Matsqui Institution
Phone: (604) 850-8205