Abbotsford, B.C., police have taken over the investigation into an incident at a B.C. prison that left four people in hospital.
In a media release, police said they were called to the Matsqui Institution shortly before 10 p.m. on Saturday to reports of a stabbing.
Police, firefighters and paramedics treated four inmates at the scene, who were transported to hospital and are expected to survive.
The case is now being handled by the Abbotsford Police Department’s Major Crime Unit. Police said they believe the incident was limited to the prison and there was no risk to the general public.
In a media release Assistant Warden Michael Cadorin said the facility was placed under lockdown Saturday to allow staff to search the prison after an assault involving four inmates.
It said visits have been suspended until the search is completed.
“The Correctional Service of Canada does not tolerate violence in our institutions,” Cadorin said in an email.
“Disciplinary actions, up to and including criminal charges can be laid against offenders involved in violent incidents. The Abbotsford Police Department was contacted following this incident and attended the institution, the investigation is ongoing.”
The Matsqui Institution is a standalone medium-security prison with a capacity for 446 inmates.