KENT LOCKDOWN TO LAST A WEEK

Drug Seizures To Blame For Search Of Prison Cells And Inmates

Kent Institution was locked down Monday, to allow staff to search for
drugs. The lockdown is due to a recent spate of drug seizures and
drug activity within the maximum security prison, in Agassiz.

Officials said in a press release Monday that the search is expected
to take about seven days. They'll be looking methodically throughout
the prison, including cells and inmates.

Scheduled visits are being curtailed and those who have previously
scheduled visits are asked to phone the institution with their enquires.

The prison's press release says the full scale search is a part of
Correctional Service Canada's Transformation Agenda, which is
attempting to strengthen measures to prevent contraband from entering
institutions.

CSC has even set up a special tip line inside prisons in the Pacific Region.

The toll-free tip line is anonymous, and available by calling 1-866-780-3784.