Automatic language translation
Our website uses an automatic service to translate our content into different languages. These translations should be used as a guide only. See our Accessibility page for further information.
Smuggling stopped – how Corrective Services is catching contraband
30 JULY 2025
A balloon of white powder removed from a visitor’s mouth. A hair tie cut open to reveal seven hidden drug bundles. These are just some of the ways people have tried to smuggle contraband into NSW correctional centres.
To combat these risks, CSNSW has ramped up the use of advanced body scanner technology, making it harder than ever to sneak in dangerous items.
Since the rollout began in 2019, dozens of full-body x-ray scanners have been installed across correctional centres statewide. These scanners are now a frontline defence against drugs, weapons, syringes, tobacco, and mobile phones – items that can fuel violence, overdoses, and intimidation behind bars.
“Prisons are one of the most monitored places in our state,” said Commissioner Gary McCahon PSM.
“When you enter a centre or complex, you’re being watched and if you try to bring contraband in, there’s a high chance you will be caught.”
The impact so far
More than 390,000 scans have been conducted, covering both inmates and visitors. These efforts have contributed to a measurable drop in inmate assaults and drug-related incidents. According to internal data, inmate assaults have decreased from 0.5 to 0.4 per 100 inmates, while drug-related contraband incidents have declined from a weekly average of 1.0 to 0.8 per 100 inmates.
Visitor contraband detections initially spiked following scanner implementation, then declined – a strong indication that the technology is acting as a deterrent. In many cases, scanners have successfully intercepted contraband that might previously have gone undetected, marking a significant win for correctional centre safety.
A review conducted by the Corrections Research, Evaluation and Statistics (CRES) team confirmed the effectiveness of the scanner rollout. Their report Full body x-ray scanners at NSW correctional centres: Scanner activity, contraband, and behavioural outcomes (PDF, 771.6 KB) highlights the scanners’ role in reducing contraband, improving safety, and deterring smuggling attempts.
The scanners use low-dose radiation, far below hospital x-ray levels, and can detect items hidden under clothing or inside the body which can be missed by metal detectors.
Scanning is mandatory for all inmates and visitors, including those who are pregnant, under 18, or have medical devices.
Visitors who decline may be offered a non-contact visit or asked to leave.
The introduction of scanners has significantly reduced the need for strip searches, which many found invasive. The new process is faster, more respectful, and less intrusive, while still maintaining high security standards.
K9 Unit: a critical line of defence
Alongside scanners, the K9 Unit continues to play a vital role. These expertly trained dogs and their handlers conduct targeted searches and visitor screenings, detecting drugs and other contraband with precision and speed.
Recent incidents include:
Wellington Correctional Centre
- A woman caught with four packages of opioids hidden in her bra.
- Another visitor removed a red balloon filled with white powder from her mouth; her car contained more drugs and paraphernalia.
Mid North Coast Correctional Centre
- A black hair tie handed over during questioning was found to contain seven packages of drugs and tobacco.
The message is clear
CSNSW is committed to refining its approach, improving scanner accuracy, updating policies, and ensuring staff are well-trained. The goal is simple: keep contraband out and protect everyone inside.
“Visitors are critically important to the wellbeing of inmates,” Commissioner McCahon added.
“But what isn’t helpful is attempting to smuggle in contraband that can have a devastating impact not only on the lives of their loved ones, but on many others in our custody.”
Last updated:
We acknowledge Aboriginal people as the First Nations Peoples of NSW and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and future.
Informed by lessons of the past, Department of Communities and Justice is improving how we work with Aboriginal people and communities. We listen and learn from the knowledge, strength and resilience of Stolen Generations Survivors, Aboriginal Elders and Aboriginal communities.
You can access our apology to the Stolen Generations.