West Mercia Police have seized seven drones and arrested 18 individuals as part of a coordinated effort to disrupt drone smuggling over HMP Long Lartin, a high-security prison in the rural village of South Littleton in the UK.
The operation is part of an ongoing campaign to combat the increasing use of drones by organized crime groups to deliver contraband, such as drugs and mobile phones, into the prison. These aerial deliveries are known as “drone drops” and have become a growing security issue, both within the prison and in surrounding communities.
HMP Long Lartin, a Category A men’s prison, has seen a spike in drone-related incidents in recent years. In response, police and prison authorities have intensified surveillance and intelligence-sharing efforts to intercept illegal drone flights and identify those responsible.
Detective Chief Inspector James Bamber of South Worcestershire emphasized the seriousness of the issue:
“We recognise that these drone incursions are also impacting our communities local to HMP Long Lartin. We are working tirelessly alongside our partners to identify, target and prosecute the criminals behind these illicit operations.”
The police have launched nine active investigations, with suspects either bailed or released under investigation. The most recent incident occurred on March 17, when a drone was spotted flying over the prison. Officers responded within minutes, preventing any drop from taking place.
Authorities believe offenders often scout the prison’s perimeter from nearby villages, looking for secluded locations to operate drones undetected. Local residents are being asked to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, particularly unfamiliar vehicles or drones in flight.
“Our local communities are our eyes and ears on the ground,” said DCI Bamber. “Information which has previously been reported to us has directly led to drones being intercepted and arrests being made.”
The crackdown is part of a broader national challenge, as prisons across the UK contend with the evolving threat posed by drone-enabled smuggling.
West Mercia Police stress that they will maintain pressure on these networks and encourage the public to continue sharing intelligence that could help disrupt future drone drops.
Post Image – Bodycam footage shows West Mercia Police seizing a drone in December, 2024 (Post Image Credit: West Mercia Police)
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