Mobiles, charger, narcotics seized from 7 throws over high walls of Ferozepur Jail
Ferozepur, January 18, 2026: In a serious breach of prison security, authorities at Ferozepur Central Jail have recovered a large quantity of prohibited items, including eight mobile phones (touchscreen and keypad), one charger, 79 packets of zarda and 32.80 grams of intoxicant powder, allegedly smuggled inside by being thrown over the jail’s high boundary walls in seven separate throws by unidentified persons.
The recoveries were made during intensified surprise checks conducted inside Block No. 2, Barrack No. 2 of the jail. Preliminary investigations revealed that smugglers repeatedly hurled packets from outside the prison, exploiting darkness and specific blind spots along the massive perimeter walls.
A case has been registered at City Police Station, Ferozepur, on the complaint of the Assistant Superintendent of Jail under Sections 42 and 52-A of the Prisons Act. Further investigation has been entrusted to ASI Sharma Singh.
Official sources said that during the current year, as many as 17 mobile phones were recovered from 16 prisoners during routine searches conducted on January 10. Notably, 2025 recorded the highest-ever recovery of 649 mobile phones from the Central Jail, highlighting the growing challenge of curbing illicit communication behind bars.
Despite the jail being surrounded by massive and high walls, it is noted that such repeated smuggling attempts point towards prior reconnaissance and possible exploitation of vulnerable points. The need to verify the credentials and activities of residents living in the vicinity of the jail has been emphasized to rule out any facilitation or involvement.
It was pointed out that the Punjab government has already approved the installation of modern security technology at a cost of Rs 126 crore, which, along with enhanced coordination between police and prison staff, is expected to curb the menace.
Except in high-profile cases, prisoners are seldom taken on police remand for in-depth interrogation, primarily due to the security risks associated with their movement outside the jail premises. This situation inadvertently allows the misuse of mobile phones—often kept in silent mode—to continue for coordinating criminal activities from within the prison. However, officials maintain that regular and surprise checks act as a strong deterrent, instilling fear among offenders and conveying a clear message that any illegal activity inside or around the jail will be closely monitored and dealt with sternly.