Russian prison officials foil alleged drug smuggling plot using cat [Video]

Russian prison authorities have intercepted a cat allegedly being used to smuggle narcotics into a correctional facility in the country’s Nizhny Novgorod region, preventing what officials described as an unusual attempt to breach prison security.

According to prison authorities, the incident occurred on July 21 at Correctional Colony No. 17, where security officers discovered the animal carrying suspected illegal substances concealed in specially made fabric collars strapped around its neck.

Officials said the cat had been fitted with two homemade collars, each containing packages of narcotics believed to have been intended for delivery to inmates inside the correctional facility.

The contraband was immediately confiscated by prison personnel, effectively thwarting the alleged smuggling operation before the drugs could reach their intended destination.

Following the seizure, the cat was examined by a veterinarian to ensure it had not suffered any injuries or health complications while being used in the suspected trafficking attempt.

Authorities said the animal was found to be in good condition and was subsequently released.

The Russian prison service has not disclosed the quantity or type of narcotics recovered, nor has it announced whether any suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Investigators are expected to examine how the animal was trained or directed toward the correctional facility and identify those responsible for orchestrating the alleged smuggling operation.

The incident highlights the increasingly unconventional methods criminal networks have allegedly adopted to move contraband into correctional facilities, where authorities continue to battle the illicit trafficking of drugs, mobile phones and other prohibited items.

While prison officials have occasionally reported attempts to use drones and other means to deliver contraband to inmates, the use of animals in such operations remains relatively rare and has drawn widespread public attention.

Authorities said investigations into the attempted smuggling are ongoing.