Dozens of mobile phones, drugs and other prohibited items have been seized at the Central Prisons over the past four months as part of intensified searches carried out both inside the facility and at the visitor entrance, the Ministry of Justice said.
The searches have been running since January 1 and have been significantly stepped up to prevent contraband from entering the prison and to ensure its security and orderly running, the ministry said.
A amendment to the Prisons Law passed in February criminalised the introduction, possession, use or attempted introduction of mobile phones and other prohibited items inside the prison.
The ministry said the law applies to inmates, visitors and any other individuals, with particularly severe penalties for staff members found to be involved.
The Ministry of Justice and Public Order and the Prison Director said anyone attempting to bring prohibited items into the prison will face criminal prosecution and imprisonment.
(information from CNA)