Prisons: Unmanned Air Systems

Drone sightings around prisons in England and Wales are of great concern and pose a major threat to security. Drone sightings around prisons increased by over 770% between 2019 and 2023 under the previous Government. We are working hard to deter, detect and disrupt the use of illegal drones that deliver contraband so that prisoners have access to a safe and stable rehabilitative environment. Our approach is multi-faceted and includes physical security countermeasures, legislation and working across Government and with international partners on this global issue.

HMPPS uses targeted physical countermeasures such as improvements to windows, installing specialised netting and grills to prevent drones from successfully delivering contraband into prisons. HMPPS also conducts vulnerability assessments across the estate to understand the risk and develop and implement plans to mitigate the threat.

In January 2024, Restricted Fly Zones were introduced around all closed prisons and young offender institutions to disrupt illegal drone use. These restrictions make all unauthorised drone incursions a crime and support police and prison collaboration to help ensure meaningful operational responses. Those using drones to smuggle illicit items which drive violence and criminality in custody, may face up to a decade behind bars.