Incidents involving drones smuggling contraband into prisons in England and Wales have risen tenfold since 2019, with over 1,000 cases recorded last year. HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, Charlie Taylor, warns of increasingly sophisticated drones delivering larger payloads, including drugs, mobile phones, and potentially more dangerous items.
Recent inspections revealed inmates using drones at facilities like HMP Garth, where windows were burned open for drone deliveries. The Prison Officers Association has raised concerns over the growing threat, citing potential risks of incendiary devices or weapons being smuggled in.
Efforts to combat the issue include restricted fly zones around prisons and technological measures like anti-drone systems trialed in Guernsey. Despite these measures, experts argue for a more holistic approach, including better mental health support and drug treatment programs.
Source: INSIDER | UK
