Prison tennis ball drug smuggling foiled

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New Plymouth Prison staff have foiled a bid to smuggle cannabis into the prison inside a tennis ball.

Staff spotted the ball stuffed full of cannabis leaves outside the perimeter fence while conducting an external security check around the boundary of the prison on Monday, acting prison manager Lyn O'Connor said.

"The tennis ball was recovered and around 20 grams of cannabis leaf was found hidden inside."

Staff vigilance had prevented the drugs from being taken by prisoners and they would continue to steadfastly monitor attempts to bring contraband into the prison, she said.

"We know there is a significant demand for drugs among some prisoners and that prisoners often pressure family, friends and associates to smuggle drugs into prison."

Ms O'Connor encouraged anyone being pressured to help get prisoners drugs to contact prison staff.

- NZPA