Drone Carrying $1M in Contraband Intercepted at Queensland Correctional Facility

Townsville, North Queensland — On May 17, correctional officers at the Townsville Correctional Complex intercepted a downed drone carrying illicit drugs, syringes, and a mobile phone. The contraband is estimated to be worth over $1 million.

The contraband was stopped before it could threaten safety.

Incident Details

Officers discovered the drone on the grounds of the correctional facility on May 17. The drone was carrying illicit drugs, syringes, and a mobile phone. Queensland Police and Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) are investigating the incident. No arrests have been made as of the time of reporting.

Official Statement

Acting Chief Superintendent Silvi Baretta stated that the contraband was stopped before it could threaten safety.

“Not only does contraband pose a substantial safety risk, it threatens our ability to deliver meaningful and targeted rehabilitation to prevent reoffending and keep communities safe,” Baretta said. She confirmed that QCS maintains a zero-tolerance policy for contraband.

Investigation

Police and the Corrective Services Investigation Unit are conducting the investigation. Authorities have appealed for anyone with information to contact them.

Legal Penalties

Operating a drone over a correctional facility carries a penalty of two years' imprisonment.

Previous Incident

A similar incident occurred at the same correctional complex in 2022. In that case, a drone carrying methylamphetamine, tobacco, cannabis, and Suboxone strips valued at $250,000 was intercepted. Charges were filed in 2023 in connection with that incident.