Restricted drugs found during raid on cell at Maryborough Correctional Centre

A cell search at Maryborough Correctional Centre has uncovered about $400,000 worth of restricted drugs.

The intelligence-led operation at Maryborough Correctional Centre successfully foiled an attempt to introduce a large quantity of Buprenorphine into the centre.

A cell search at Maryborough Correctional Centre has led to the discovery of restricted drugs worth about $400,000 inside the prison.

The intelligence-led operation at Maryborough Correctional Centre successfully foiled an attempt to introduce a large quantity of the opioid Buprenorphine into the centre.

The contraband was discovered after Queensland Corrective Services intelligence officers identified the plan and worked with Tactical Response Officers and the QCS Dog Squad who searched the cells, recovering a package containing more than 400 strips of Buprenorphine with a prison value of about $400,000.

Chief Superintendent John Owens, general manager of the Maryborough Correctional Centre praised the collaborative efforts of officers to prevent the drug from spreading through the centre.

“This intercept is an example of our officers’ commitment to maintaining the safety and security of our centres, which includes a zero-tolerance approach to the introduction of drugs,” Supt Owens said.

“Our highly skilled intelligence officers are the unseen eyes and ears of the centre, and they work closely with colleagues to ensure those who attempt to bring in contraband will be caught.

A cell search at Maryborough Correctional Centre has led to the discovery of restricted drugs worth about $400,000.

“Correctional centres are controlled environments for a reason and introducing illicit substances and prohibited items endangers the safety of officers, visitors and prisoners.”

The matter is now being investigated by the Queensland Police Services’ Corrective Services Investigation Unit.

Taking or attempting to take a prohibited item into a jail can result in up to two years’ imprisonment.

“QCS puts a significant effort into preventing drugs from entering prisons, including through intelligence monitoring, technology and enhanced staff training,” a QCS statement read.

The intercept was revealed as the Minister for Corrective Services Laura Gerber MP visited the Maryborough facility last week to meet with officers and see first-hand the work being done to reduce crime and protect community safety.

Ms Gerber said she was making it a priority to visit correctional centres around the state during her first months in office.

“A strong and stable corrective service creates a strong and safe community, and I have made it a priority to understand the challenging and rewarding work corrections officers perform right across our state,” she said.

“I have met some incredible officers who are making a real difference and together we are committed to reducing reoffending and keeping Queenslanders safe.”

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Originally published as Restricted drugs found during raid on cell at Maryborough Correctional Centre