INDIANAPOLIS, USA (AP) — Two inmates housed at different Indiana prisons are accused of running a drug ring, thanks to cellphones smuggled in by guards.

A federal indictment unsealed yesterday charged 40 people in connection with a scheme that involved methamphetamine, heroin and other drugs. The indictment also alleges that prison guards smuggled cellphones and drugs into prisons.

The FBI says about 300 agents fanned out across the state and made arrests. At least 17 people appeared in court yesterday in Indianapolis. The judge ordered they be held in custody.

The indictment indicates that Oscar Perez and Justin Addler were at the centre of the ring. According to prison records, Perez is serving time for murder and Addler for drug dealing.

One corrections officer is charged, though the indictment says multiple guards were involved.

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