The contraband operation, led by CSNSW’s specialised Security Operations Group and executed in conjunction with NSW Police, resulted in three visitors being charged and four prevented from entering the centre.

Assistant Commissioner for Security and Intelligence Mark Wilson PSM said that while the credit card knife was allegedly discovered on a visitor, it is also an offence for visitors to have banned items in their cars when attending the complex.

“Anyone visiting a correctional centre needs to be aware that officers and K9s are out in force conducting contraband screenings and this includes searches of any property brought on site,” Mr Wilson said.

“We make sure no stone is left unturned. Everything on CSNSW property – whether it be a handbag, pram or car – is carefully inspected for contraband.

“Visitors need to use some common sense and ensure that they are not driving into a correctional facility with a boot full of hunting knives or anything else that is considered contraband in the custodial setting such as tobacco.”

During the operation, officers assisted by contraband detection-dogs found items including a folding credit card knife, 34g of tobacco, 1.3g of crystal substance (believed to be methamphetamine) and one syringe.

Almost all of the contraband was allegedly discovered in visitor cars.

Minister for Corrections David Elliott thanked the officers for their diligence in making the contraband finds and said the operation shows that visitors will face criminal charges if they try to bring banned items into correctional centres.

“Any contraband that enters the prison environment presents a major risk to the health, safety and security of staff and inmates. Visitors caught bringing banned items, including illegal and prescription drugs, to correctional centres face penalties of up to two years' imprisonment,” Mr Elliott said.