Hi-tech scanners that can detect microscopic traces of drugs are being trialled in three Scots prisons.
Jail chiefs have brought in the machines to clamp down on the epidemic of mind-bending psychoactive substances such as Spice, Black Mamba and other Class-A drugs such as heroin and LSD.
Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf revealed the £30,000 scanners are being piloted.
Yesterday, the Daily Record revealed that laced with drugs on 96 occasions at one private prison is just the tip of a jail drugs iceberg.
Gangs have been smuggling contraband to fuel a racket at HMP Addiewell in West Lothian.
The Scottish Prison Service have trained staff to use the scanning machines, which have had a 100 per cent success rate in similar trials in England.
The Rapiscan technology can detect the tiniest traces of drugs, including psychoactive substances soaked into clothing and paper. Staff have received training on the machines.
A positive result gives officers grounds to carry out further investigations, which could lead to sanctions or criminal prosecution.
Yousaf said last night: “The use of drugs in our prisons cannot be tolerated.
“The SPS continues to seek innovative technological solutions to this challenge to ensure the safety of staff and those within its care.
“The SPS are exploring a range of actions, including the use of scanners and other technology.”
