Inmates at Fenbrook Institution were placed under lockdown status Tuesday for staff to conduct an exceptional search of the facility after information was received indicating there is contraband within the facility.

A press release indicated the search was ordered by the acting warden and from information gathered, it is believed the contraband may be linked to the previous search in March.

Searching of the facility is ongoing, and normal institutional operations and visits to the prison are suspended until the conclusion of the search.

Jason Godin, regional president for the Union of Canadian Correctional Officers, said the reason for the action is because of information alleging a zip gun and three bullets are hidden somewhere inside the facility.

He said the prison was under lockdown status in March for the same reason, and an actual “bullet” was found.

“At that time there was information that there was more ammunition inside the institution, but after a search was conducted and no more was found it was decided to reopen,” Godin said in an e-mail to this newspaper. “This new information just confirms the officers’ thoughts that there is, in fact, (contraband) inside the fences at Fenbrook Institution.”

Annette Allen, assistant warden management services, said on Wednesday “bullet” is inmate talk and would not confirm or deny that one was retrieved.

She said staff looks for all unauthorized items, which typically include booze, drugs, ammunition and weapon-type items, and when found, appropriate charges are laid.

Allen said the search is being managed internally by staff with the assistance of extra correctional officers.

She said correctional officers are well trained in searching techniques and are outfitted with proper searching equipment and gear to ensure safety.

Searches are conducted by officers during their regular post and duties, as well as a team focused on the searching activities. The inmates are brought out of their cells and held in the visitor building while their accommodations are thoroughly combed, she explained.

When asked about how long the prison would be under lockdown, she said the search will take as long as it takes.

“We don’t want to rush it and end up missing something,” Allen said. “It is a very methodical and carefully enacted process and is something that we manage and prepare for.”

During the search there is no risk to public safety or the safety of offenders or staff, she said. “We are taking all measures to ensure everyone’s safety.”

The previous search in March, which yielded contraband from various sections of the institution including homemade weapons and homemade brew, cost the institution an estimated $100,000 in offsetting costs, overtime and food costs. Those charges were absorbed by the institution’s operating budget, said Allen.

The facility will reopen once the institution’s management determines it is safe to do so.