Correctional officers at the North Fraser Pretrial Centre (NFPC) in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, have raised concerns about security failures and workplace culture, saying the issues may be increasing the risk of future inmate escapes.

The 300-cell correctional facility has housed some of Canada’s most notorious criminals, including serial killer Robert Pickton, convicted war criminals, and high-profile gang members awaiting trial in its high-security segregation units.

According to correctional officers who spoke to CBC News, the jail is facing a growing crisis of confidence among staff. The concerns have resurfaced following criminal charges against a former employee, raising fresh questions about internal security procedures and oversight.

The prison has remained under scrutiny since July 21, 2022, when convicted gang murderer Rabih Alkhalil escaped from the high-security facility in a case that shocked Canadian authorities.

The escape triggered an extensive investigation by the Combined Special Forces Unit, which continues to examine whether the inmate received assistance from individuals inside or outside the prison.

Staff members say concerns over workplace culture, including fears of retaliation for reporting problems, have made it more difficult to address security issues effectively.

The latest developments have renewed calls for stronger oversight and improvements to safety procedures as authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the escape and the broader security environment at the facility.