The Isle of Man prison says it will continue to take a hard-line against any attempts to smuggle drugs into Victoria Road.

Deputy Prison Governor Colin Ring was speaking after an in-mate was handed a six year sentence for attempting to recover drugs which had been thrown over the prison wall.

He stressed that anyone found breaking the law would be prosecuted.

Jonathan Myers was on remand at Victoria Road when he was caught 'fishing' from his cell window. He was using a homemade line and hook and was trying to snag a package that was later found to contain cocaine and cannabis.

Sentencing Myers to six years in prison Deemster Doyle said he viewed the offence in a more serious light as it had been committed inside the jail.

Mr Ring who is also security manager at the prison, said he hoped the sentence would act as a deterrent to others. He said any attempt to smuggle controlled substances into the prison would not be tolerated. Sniffer dogs check all visitors coming into the prison and there are regular sweeps of the perimeter wall, and searches of inmates cells when required.

He added that the Island's new jail will offer greater protection against would-be drug smugglers as it is surrounded by a 5.2 metre high external perimeter wall constructed from cast concrete.