A prisoner who had been allowed out on day release was arrested as he made his way back to jail.

Officers from the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit along with Lancashire Police, British Transport Police and His Majesty's Prisons and Probation Service were carrying out spot checks on visitors and prisoners suspected of smuggling illegal items into HMP Kirkham. 

During a stop and search of one returning prisoner, police arrested him on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs.

Following interview, the prisoner was eventually returned to custody at HMP Kirkham, and an investigation is now being carried out. 

The checks took place on Tuesday, March 12, as officers gathered outside the prison and at nearby train stations and roadsides to search convicts and their vehicles as they returned from being released on temporary license and work placements.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris McClellan, from the NWROCU Prisons Team, said: “During the operation, officers conducted many stop checks and vehicle checks which resulted in the seizure of contraband including multiple mobile phones and tobacco.

"One prisoner was arrested on suspicion of possessing with intent to supply drugs but he has now returned to secure custody while an investigation is ongoing.

“I want to reassure the public we are dedicated to combatting the illegal supply and movement of drugs, especially inside prison establishments.

"We are committed to working alongside our partners to take a joint approach to tackling serious and organised crime across the region and inside our prisons.

"Drugs have no place in our society and, through Operation Checklist, we will continue to disrupt crime and keep people safe by removing harmful drugs from local communities and inside our prisons.

“If you have information or concerns about the illegal supply of drugs, please contact police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.”