MANHATTAN – Law enforcement in Riley County and officials at Manhattan High School conducted a joint operation with multiple canine units, to perform a random search for illicit drugs on Tuesday morning, according to principal Greg Hoyt.

“This was a planned and coordinated effort between the school and law enforcement and was not prompted by any specific information regarding drugs or drug activity at the school, according to a letter to parents from Hoyt.

The building was placed into “lockout” mode during the drill and all exterior doors were locked to prevent anyone from entering the building during the search.

School officials monitored the front entryways during the drill to direct any incoming traffic. Students were not permitted to leave their classrooms, but regular instruction did continue for the duration of the drill. The drill was completed in approximately 45 minutes.

“Several positive indicants did arise and school administrators are following up in concert with law enforcement, according to  Hoyt.