DRUGS FOUND NEAR PRISON PERIMETER

For the second time in two months, prison officials have found drugs
near the perimeter fence of Matsqui Institution.

Just after midnight on Sunday, a correctional officer found a tennis
ball at the base of an outside perimeter fence. A routine daylight
search of the institution's exercise yard was subsequently conducted
and a second tennis ball containing drugs was found.

The first ball contained more than 600 steroid pills; the second
contained 21 grams of marijuana.

In late January, a package containing marijuana and ecstasy was found
between two perimeter fences after correctional officers spotted
suspicious activity in the area.

"The presence of drugs in prisons continues to be of great concern to
Corrections Canada as it is often related to the commission of crimes,
the transmission of infectious diseases and violence in institutions,"
said Randie Scott of Matsqui Institution.

A tipline has been set up has been set up at all federal institutions
in the region to provide an additional source for receiving
information about activities that relate to the safety and security of
the prisons. Callers can choose to remain anonymous when they call
1-866-955-5550.