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Quebec announces new drone detectors to fight smuggling in detention centres

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Quebec Public Security Minister Francois Bonnardel speaks at a news conference, Thursday, May 30, 2024 at the legislature in Quebec City. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot

MONTREAL — The Quebec government is planning to use new drone detectors, cellphone detectors and mobile X-ray scanners to fight contraband smuggling in the province’s detention centres.

Public Security Minister François Bonnardel says contraband cellphones and drone deliveries to inmates pose safety risks for inmates and correctional staff.

The government says a new generation of drone detectors will make it easier to track drones and apprehend pilots.

Correctional officers will also be able to use cellphone detection devices and mobile X-ray scanners to find contraband items hidden in cells and common areas.

Bonnardel announced a first round of security measures last month, including body scanners and fences around windows to prevent drone deliveries.

Quebec is also looking at deploying cellphone jammers, which can block the signals of phones smuggled into the detention centres.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 3, 2025.

The Canadian Press

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