In a bid to combat the escalating issue of contraband being delivered by drones to prison facilities, Saskatchewan is stepping up its security measures. The province’s Community Safety Ministry has announced plans to pilot technology that will detect unauthorized drones, a move that comes in response to growing concerns about the influx of drugs and weapons being smuggled into correctional institutions.
Drone Deliveries: A Growing Concern
Prison guards in Saskatchewan have likened the drone deliveries to a form of “Uber Eats” for inmates, as these flying devices are reportedly dropping everything from methamphetamine and ceramic blades to mobile phones directly into prison yards or even near inmates’ cells. Jake Suelzle, president of the Union of Canadian Correctional Officers for the Prairie region, emphasised the alarming sophistication of these operations.
“The technology and how specific these drones are to the locations they drop is quite amazing,” Suelzle explained. “We are in desperate need of help with this. The institutions are literally flooded with narcotics.” He cited a striking example from Alberta, where over $900,000 worth of meth was intercepted at a correctional facility, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Saskatchewan’s Proactive Approach
In light of these challenges, the Saskatchewan government aims to implement new detection technologies to identify drones that may be posing a risk to prison security. While the ministry acknowledged that drone activity is not yet a widespread issue within the province, it has become a significant concern elsewhere in Canada.
“This pilot project reflects a proactive approach,” the ministry stated, although it did not disclose specific locations for the technology trials or details on its functionality. Suelzle noted that while some federal institutions have attempted to install similar measures, these systems often become outdated quickly, leaving guards with the daunting task of increased vigilance amid staffing shortages.
Staffing Challenges and Security Risks
The situation is compounded by recent cuts to correctional staff, which have made it increasingly difficult for officers to respond effectively to incidents of drug use and overdoses within prisons. Suelzle expressed concern that with fewer officers available, the mortality rate associated with drug overdoses is likely to rise.
“Now we have fewer officers being able to respond to those overdoses, which is going to mean that our fatality rate in overdosing is only going to go up,” he warned, underscoring the critical link between adequate staffing levels and inmate safety.
Federal Response and Ongoing Monitoring
Correctional Service Canada (CSC) has acknowledged the rise in drone-smuggling incidents and is actively working on new security measures to counter the evolving threats posed by these technologies. In a statement, CSC revealed that it continues to enhance its intelligence capabilities to disrupt drone networks and reduce contraband influx.
The agency reported a decline in drone incidents, with 839 occurrences in 2025-26 compared to 1,064 in 2024-25. However, the recent budget cuts—amounting to a $132 million reduction—raise concerns about the agency’s ability to maintain safety and operational efficiency.
Suelzle remains hopeful about the steps being taken in Saskatchewan. “Procurement is a long process,” he acknowledged, adding, “Anything we can get on the technological front, if we’re able to stay on the forefront of that, it would be more than welcome.”
Why it Matters
The rise of drone deliveries into prisons represents a significant challenge not only for correctional officers but also for the safety and rehabilitation of inmates. As drug abuse continues to plague correctional facilities, the implementation of effective detection technologies is crucial. With the stakes high and lives on the line, Saskatchewan’s proactive measures could serve as a vital blueprint for other provinces grappling with similar security issues, ultimately contributing to a safer environment for both inmates and staff.
