News Releases

Pacific Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ABBOTSFORD, BC, February 5, 2008 - The lockdown of inmates at Matsqui Institution ended today, February 5, 2008. All regularly scheduled visits and other planned activities will recommence.

Inmates had been confined to their cells since January 25, 2008 to facilitate a search of the institution after 170 inmates refused direction to return to the living unit from the exercise yard. While in the exercise yard, inmates broke several windows, set a number of fires, burnt garbage, foliage and an outdoor structure.

During the exceptional search staff found 2 sharp-edged weapons and several unauthorized items were confiscated.

Matsqui Institution is a medium security facility operated by Correctional Service of Canada. It is located in Abbotsford, BC and has a current population of 345 male offenders.

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For more information, media representatives may contact:

Marie Shepherd
A/Assistant Warden Management Services
Matsqui Institution
604 850-8205