20 July
Corrections staff can be praised for stopping an attempt to get drugs into Manawatu Prison. On Saturday 17 July attentive Corrections staff observed via security cameras a vehicle approaching the Prison with its lights off and a person was seen running and throwing an object over the perimeter fence. The vehicle then left at speed.
Staff went to collect the package and found a milk carton that contained two capsules of cannabis oil, a pay-phone card, a bag of lollies and a note.
“Staff vigilance is vital in monitoring not only our prisoners and visitors but also activity outside the prison perimeter,” says Manawatu Prison Manger Peter Howe.
“It is surprising that members of the public will put themselves in jeopardy by attempting such acts. Especially since it is widely known that prisons have a range of security measures to stop this happening, such as perimeter surveillance and searching. This means the chances of the contraband actually reaching the intended recipient are extremely low but the chances of being caught trying are high. The risk simply isn't worth the effort.
“The demand for drugs in prison is high and unfortunately prisoners can put pressure on people to try and bring things in for them. We encourage anyone who is being pressured to bring drugs into a prison to report it to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Calls made to this line are completely anonymous and identities are protected.
All evidence has been handed over to the Police who are continuing with their enquiries.
“Nationally random prisoner positive drug tests are sitting at an all time low and today’s find is one of the ways we are achieving this. Drug use in our prisons will not be tolerated.”
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