Daijiworld Media Network – New York

New York, Mar 19: A drone was used in an attempted contraband smuggling operation at the Marcy Correctional Facility in upstate New York, raising fresh concerns over emerging security threats in correctional institutions.

According to the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, staff detected the drone flying over the facility around 1 a.m. on March 14. The device dropped a suspicious package between dormitory buildings within the secured premises.

Officials said the package, which had wires protruding from it, prompted an immediate response from the New York State Police Bomb Squad to rule out any explosive threat. After being declared safe, the package was opened for inspection.

Authorities found multiple contraband items inside, including two double-edged knives measuring about 8 inches, over a pound of a “green leafy substance” suspected to be drugs, and papers allegedly soaked in intoxicating chemicals.

The package also contained a mobile phone, hair clippers with accessories, and bandanas.

The drone used in the operation was later recovered outside the prison premises.

Officials have launched an investigation into the incident, though no suspects have been identified so far.

Commissioner Daniel F. Martuscello III warned that drones are becoming an increasingly serious threat. “Contraband introduced into correctional facilities fuels violence and puts both staff and inmates at risk,” he said, adding that the use of drones to deliver weapons, drugs, and communication devices is an evolving challenge for prison security systems.

Authorities are continuing efforts to track those behind the incident.