In a stark warning, Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor highlighted the escalating threat posed by drone deliveries of drugs and weapons into British prisons, labeling it a national security issue. This statement was made on January 14, 2025, amid growing concerns over the effectiveness of prison security measures [0d2033f7].
Reports indicate that inmates at Manchester Prison have resorted to burning holes in windows to facilitate drone deliveries, reflecting a troubling trend of increased drone activity despite the introduction of restricted fly zones a year ago. Inspections conducted in September and October revealed that prisons like Manchester and Long Lartin have developed thriving illicit economies, exacerbated by overcrowding and deteriorating basic security measures [0d2033f7].
Conditions within these facilities have been described as 'grim', with issues such as dirt, dampness, and rodent infestations prevalent. Alarmingly, 39% of inmates tested positive for drugs at Manchester, while Long Lartin inmates have been reported using buckets for toilets [0d2033f7].
Taylor criticized the police and prison service for effectively ceding airspace to organized crime, which has taken advantage of the lax security to operate freely. In response to these challenges, the Ministry of Justice has announced plans to install new netting and CCTV systems at Manchester Prison to combat the drone threat [0d2033f7].