Police issue warning around drones in airspace over HMP Stoke Heath

Police are reminding the public that drones are forbidden in the airspace over HMP Stoke Heath and surrounding villages. 

The prison is a men’s prison and young offender institution on the outskirts of Market Drayton, and there are currently robust plans in place to respond to sightings of drones and any suspicious activity near to the prison.  

Drones are often used to drop illegal contraband into prisons, contributing to issues within the facility and Organised Crime Groups (OCG’s) outside. 

Communication between police and the prison is regular, with intelligence, information and prevention tactics being shared amongst partners, including HMP Stoke Heath.

Police are also calling for the public to report any sightings to officers: Report a crime | West Mercia Police

PC Iain Mcintosh said: “As always, our local communities are our eyes and ears on the ground, and the intelligence we gather from them is invaluable. 

“Information which has previously been reported to us in relation to drone sightings has been investigated thoroughly, and we ask our communities is to continue to report information to us.  

“We also want to know about any suspicious acting vehicles; offenders may repeatedly drive around the areas surrounding the prison to find a location where they can fly a drone from. 

“If you witness any suspicious activity or see a drone in the airspace near to the prison, call us immediately.  

“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.”