Contraband Crackdown: Bowden Institution Tightens Security

Staff at Bowden Institution, a federal prison situated just 100 kilometres north of Calgary on Highway 2, made vigilant seizures of contraband packages on October 22 and 23, 2025. This decisive action at the multi-level security facility, located between Innisfail and Bowden, highlights a persistent battle against illicit items within Canada's correctional system.

The presence of contraband, including dangerous drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine, is an ongoing challenge in Canadian prisons, with methods such as drone deliveries continually attempting to circumvent security. This isn't a new fight; Bowden staff have previously faced exposure risks to potent substances like fentanyl during such critical searches.

For Calgarians, these seizures at a facility so close to home are directly tied to regional safety. Public safety remains a significant concern in our city, frequently topping municipal discussions and election platforms. While Calgary has seen a recent dip in its crime severity index, violent crime rates are still higher than they were a decade ago. The efforts of correctional staff to intercept contraband are vital in preventing these illicit activities from further impacting our communities and ensuring the smooth operation of our justice system.

This one comes to us from the Government of Canada. Get more info at the source: https://www.canada.ca/en/correctional-service/news/2025/10/seizure-of-contraband-items-at-bowden-institution.html