By Canadian Press

Prison Security

Federal, Quebec prisons to launch pilot project on jamming cellphone, drone signals

Mar 7, 2025 | 3:00 PM

OTTAWA — Ottawa has approved a pilot project to block cellphone and drone signals in federal and Quebec provincial prisons.

Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne says in a media statement the unauthorized use of drones and cell phones in prisons is a serious threat to the safety and security of Canadians.

Champagne says he has approved a legal exemption to allow the use of radiofrequency jammers, which block wireless communication and render the devices unusable.

The order applies to federal prisons across Canada and provincial prisons in Quebec.

Champagne says the pilot project will offer a “controlled opportunity” to test the technology and set an example for other correctional facilities that may be considering using jammers in the future.

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The Correctional Service of Canada said last year it was taking steps to combat the “evolving threat” of drones that drop contraband into prisons, but that it lacked the legal authority to use drone-jamming technology.

Last December, three people were arrested and charged after an incident at Saskatchewan Penitentiary outside Prince Albert.

A drone used to transport drugs, was observed carrying a package by way of a tow rope.

That’s according to Saskatchewan RCMP who noted that as a result of their investigation, staff at the prison located and seized approximately 83 grams of methamphetamine, a small amount of cannabis concentrate, tobacco and cell phones/chargers.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 7, 2024.

Anja Karadeglija, The Canadian Press