Criminal syndicates are reportedly earning up to £50,000 for a single delivery by using drones to fly illicit goods into prison grounds across England and Wales. The sophisticated smuggling method has seen a dramatic surge, creating a major security challenge for the authorities.
The Scale of the Smuggling Epidemic
Official figures reveal a sharp increase in drone activity targeting prisons. The Ministry of Justice logged more than 1,000 confirmed drone 'drops' across the prison estate last year alone. HMP Manchester, the historic Strangeways prison, has become a particular hotspot, recording at least 220 separate drone deliveries in just one 12-month period – the highest number in the country.
Sources indicate that these operations are lightning-fast, with drops sometimes completed in under 20 seconds. The drones, which can cost from hundreds to tens of thousands of pounds, are capable of carrying payloads weighing up to 7kg.
High Profits and Dangerous Cargo
According to a former inmate with two decades of experience in prisons like Manchester and Hull, the financial incentives are enormous. A basic mobile phone can fetch £2,000 inside prison walls. Paper soaked in synthetic drugs like Spice or cocaine can be sold for around £1,000.
"Some gangs are raking in £50,000 a go," the ex-prisoner told The Sun. "If you put five phones on a drone and deliver them, that's £10,000. Drugs change hands for huge amounts... Some prisoners are even ordering McDonald's to show off."
The gangs operate with military-like precision, employing a drone pilot, known as an 'eagle', and a spotter who communicates with inmates awaiting their deliveries.
Security Crackdown and Grave Warnings
The consequences of this contraband pipeline are severe. Last month, Greater Manchester Police seized more than 500 mobile phones and SIM cards from inmates at HMP Manchester. Detective Sergeant Carla Dalton warned that phones behind bars are "used to arrange drug deals, weapon drops and even plan violent attacks."
Charlie Taylor, the Chief Inspector of Prisons, has issued a stark warning that drones could soon be used to deliver even more dangerous items. Following reports of large 'zombie' knives being flown in, he asked: "If zombie knives [can] go over, then what else? Heaven forbid, something like explosives and prisoners attempting to escape."
In response, the Ministry of Justice has announced a £40 million investment in new security measures designed to clamp down on contraband. A spokesman confirmed that £10 million of this fund is specifically earmarked for anti-drone technology, including reinforced window replacements, external grilles, and specialist netting to intercept the devices.
