Drug supply in prison: a scoping review

Drugs are an increasingly salient concern in prisons worldwide. This scoping review aims to synthesise empirical evidence on drug trafficking routes and drug market dynamics within prisons. Ten empirical studies met the inclusion criteria. The main smuggling routes identified are through visitors, mail, staff, prisoners entering or returning to prison, and perimeter throwovers. In recent years, novel smuggling methods have emerged, including drone delivery and the impregnation of mail with psychoactive substances. While prison drug markets share operational similarities with external drug markets, there are notable differences, including pricing structures and payment mechanisms.