Authorities at the Visakhapatnam Central Prison have uncovered a concerning security breach after seizing multiple cellphones that were found without SIM cards during a routine inspection. The discovery has raised alarms about potential lapses in surveillance and the possibility of unauthorized communication within the high-security facility.

The cellphones were reportedly found hidden in the belongings of some inmates, though no SIM cards or active connections were identified. Prison officials suspect that the devices were being used to access Wi-Fi networks or for other offline activities that could aid illicit coordination.

"We have initiated an inquiry to trace how the phones entered the prison despite stringent checks. Measures will be intensified to prevent such incidents in the future," said a senior prison official.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the devices may have been smuggled in with the help of visitors or corrupt insiders. The absence of SIM cards does not eliminate the potential threat, as modern smartphones can function using hotspot connections, enabling access to the internet and communication apps.

The incident has prompted prison authorities to conduct a thorough audit of security protocols, including the scanning of visitor belongings and increased monitoring of inmate activities. Law enforcement agencies are also being roped in to investigate any external links or networks aiding the inmates.

This is not the first time cellphones have been found in Indian prisons, but the discovery in Vizag highlights the growing challenge of curbing the use of technology in correctional facilities. Officials are exploring the installation of mobile signal jammers and stricter enforcement measures to prevent such breaches in the future.

As the inquiry continues, the incident has reignited discussions on modernizing prison security systems to address emerging threats effectively.