Two arrested after drone spotted flying over Midlands prison

Two men were arrested after the drone was spotted over HMP Long Lartin

Two men were arrested after a drone which was used to smuggle drugs was spotted flying over a prison

West Mercia Police chased a suspicious vehicle after the device was observed at HMP Long Lartin in Evesham, at 9.30pm on Sunday (August 10).

The pursuit was brought to a stop after officers used a stinger on the A46 near the Simon De Montfort Bridge.

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A drone battery and cannabis were found in the vehicle, while the force’s dog unit led police to a drone and other items in the nearby area.

Two men, aged 25 and 28, were subsequently arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to convey prohibited items into a prison.

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Detective Chief Inspector James Bamber said: “We currently have two people in police custody after officers successfully intercepted a suspect vehicle linked to a drone sighting over HMP Long Lartin.

“Contraband believed to be intended for behind the prison walls was seized from the car along with a drone.

“We are continuing in our efforts to detect and disrupt drone activity over the prison, and build a greater intelligence picture to ultimately dismantle the organised crime groups behind the operations.”

Last month, the Prison Service announced a new investment of £900,000 and designed to disrupt the in-flow of drugs and weapons.

It came following a 43 per cent rise in the last financial year in drone incidents at prisons.

The statement added: “If a drone isn’t currently airborne, but you have information and don’t feel comfortable speaking to police, you can report anonymously though Crimestoppers.

“It is 100% anonymous, they never ask your name, and they cannot trace your call or IP address, call 0800 555 111.”