In a concerning development, Ferozepur Jail recorded 13 instances of packets being thrown into the facility, containing banned items. Among these incidents, a returning prisoner on parole was found to have concealed three packets within his body cavity. Over the past three months, a total of 104 such throws have been documented, resulting in the recovery of various prohibited items, including 123 mobile phones.
Despite round-the-clock surveillance within and outside the premises, the relentless tossing of packets poses a significant security risk. The jail’s location, with open spaces on two sides and adjacent to high-rise buildings, exacerbates the challenge of thwarting unauthorized deliveries. Plans to relocate the jail to the outskirts of Ferozepur were considered previously but were abandoned due to budgetary constraints. The recent incident unfolded in the early hours of the morning, around 4:30 AM, when unidentified individuals lobbed 13 packets into the jail compound. Upon inspection, authorities discovered 243 sachets of tobacco, along with cigarettes, mobile phones, chargers, and data cables among the seized items.
Following the discovery, a case under the Prisons Act was filed based on a complaint lodged by Sarbjit Singh, Assistant Superintendent. Investigations into the matter are ongoing, led by Balwinder Singh, the investigating officer.
The recurring incidents underscore the urgent need for a concerted effort, guided by political will and intelligence-based strategies, to curb the influx of drugs and contraband into prison facilities. Failure to address this issue compromises the integrity of the correctional system and undermines its role in administering justice.