A joint police and corrections operation has targeted contraband being brought into Canberra’s prison, with multiple visitors refused entry and drivers allegedly caught drug-driving.

Police and ACT Corrective Services officers conducted the operation at the Alexander Maconochie Centre on Thursday afternoon, focusing on people arriving for scheduled visits.

Visitors were stopped and searched before entering the facility, with several drivers allegedly attempting to avoid police before being intercepted by road policing officers.

During the operation, one visitor was refused entry after a drug detection dog indicated the presence of contraband. Another person arriving by public transport had their visit cancelled after allegedly being found with prohibited items.

Police said two drivers returned positive roadside drug tests, multiple items of contraband were seized, and five visitors were turned away for alleged breaches of visitation rules.

Police say they are continuing to target attempts to bring illicit drugs and other prohibited items into the prison, warning offenders they face arrest and charges.

Under ACT law, bringing prohibited items into a correctional centre can carry a fine of up to $1000, up to one year in prison, or both. Supplying a drug of dependence carries penalties of up to $5000, up to five years’ imprisonment, or both.