Four arrested as package bound for prison seized

A contraband package believed to be intended for beyond the walls of HMP Long Lartin was seized in early hours of this morning.

A report was received shortly before 2am today (Friday 11 July) that a drone was circling the airspace above the prison in South Littleton.

Enquiries were made and patrol officers were on the tail of a suspect vehicle by 2.25am. The car was stopped on the A46 in Alcester with four people inside.

A quick response and good co-ordinated work meant the contraband package had not made it into the prison and it was seized.

A drone, mobile phones, suspected drugs, drug paraphernalia were located inside the vehicle.

Four people, aged 15, 16, 18 and 19, were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to convey prohibited items into a prison and remain in police custody.

Detective Chief Inspector James Bamber said: “An immediate response from us and good policing work by everyone involved meant we were able to intercept a suspect vehicle before it reached its suspected final destination.

“We will continue to respond the issue robustly and maintain that approach in our investigations.”

If you spot a drone near to the prison or have information about suspicious activity near to HMP Long Lartin, please report via 999 immediately.

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.