Residents living near HMP Long Lartin, a high-security prison situated near Evesham in Worcestershire, have reported a significant increase in drone activity above the facility, which is home to some of the UK's most dangerous criminals, including murderers, rapists, and terrorists. In recent months, villagers claim to have witnessed as many as seven drones at a time, allegedly engaged in smuggling drugs and other contraband into the prison grounds.
The issue came to a head when police apprehended a drone operator attempting to deliver drugs to HMP Long Lartin. This incident has highlighted the facility's growing reputation as a nexus for aerial contraband deliveries. West Mercia Police have acknowledged the problem, stating that they are currently handling nine investigations related to drone incursions around the prison. So far, the police have arrested 18 individuals and confiscated at least seven drones as part of their efforts to combat the use of drones in illicit activities.
Locals, particularly those residing in South Littleton, have expressed their distress over the disturbances caused by the drones. One anonymous villager noted, "We've had five, six, seven drones at once sometimes," emphasising that the drones are typically large and capable of carrying substantial payloads. The constant drone activity has led to feelings of unease among the community. One resident described the experience as "really problematic and a little bit unnerving," while expressing frustration that it seems as if "no one really cares" about their plight.
Another local described the frequency of drone sightings, stating, "They come across on a regular basis. Usually at night. You can have two or three in an evening sometimes." The individual mentioned being able to see the flashing lights and hear the noise generated by the drones but pointed out that the operators likely remain out of sight, operating from a considerable distance.
In response to these concerns, West Mercia Police have committed to working closely with HMP Long Lartin to tackle the organised criminals responsible for these drone operations. Detective Chief Inspector James Bamber stated: "We recognise that these drone incursions are also impacting our communities local to HMP Long Lartin. I want to reassure those residents that we are working tirelessly alongside our partners to identify, target and prosecute the criminals behind these illicit operations."
Bamber also highlighted the importance of community involvement, stating that local residents' reports of suspicious activities have proven essential in their attempts to intercept drones and apprehend suspects. He encouraged residents to report any unusual behaviour or sightings of drones in the vicinity of the prison to aid police efforts. "We will not stop in our pursuit of these criminals, to tear down the OCG's behind the operations, and to put a stop to the activity fuelling organised crime and impacting our communities," he added.
The situation underscores the growing challenge posed by drone technology in facilitating illegal activities, prompting both local authorities and communities to seek new strategies to mitigate these risks.
Source: Noah Wire Services