Dozens of mobile phones, narcotics and other prohibited items have been confiscated at the central prisons over the past four months, as part of intensified and thorough inspections carried out inside the facility and at visitor entry points, the justice ministry said on Monday.

The ministry noted that the checks, which have been ongoing since January 1, have been significantly stepped up in a bid to prevent the smuggling of illegal items and to safeguard the security and proper functioning of the prison.

It also recalled that, following an amendment to the prisons law passed in February, the introduction, possession, use or attempted smuggling of mobile phones and other banned items constitutes a criminal offence.

The criminalisation applies not only to inmates but also to visitors and any other individuals, while particularly strict penalties are in force for staff members found to be involved in such acts.

The ministry and prison authorities stressed that any attempt to bring prohibited items into the facility will be dealt with firmly and will lead to criminal prosecution and prison sentences.