Drone Gang Jailed for 'Uber Eats for Prisoners' Smuggling Operation
A sophisticated drone smuggling gang, described by a judge as running an 'Uber Eats or Deliveroo' service for prisoners, has been sentenced to prison for orchestrating a large-scale contraband operation across multiple UK correctional facilities. The seven-member group, led by ringleader Shafaghatullah Mohseni, 29, conducted approximately 70 illicit drops involving around 140 drone flights between December 2024 and February 2025.
Sophisticated Smuggling Network Uncovered
The gang targeted at least nine prisons in London and the South East of England, using drones to deliver packages directly to inmates' cell windows. The contraband included cannabis, Xanax, Valium, flick knives, and tiny mobile phones, creating significant security risks within the prison system. Mohseni, who prosecutors identified as the 'grand delivery driver', received over £30,000 in payments for coordinating these dangerous shipments.
Police Investigation and Arrests
The Metropolitan Police's 'Operation Buzzbin' investigation culminated in the arrest of Mohseni and three accomplices while they were en route to a scheduled drop at HMP Norwich. Authorities recovered a drone, multiple packages of contraband, and a knife from their vehicle during the interception. This decisive police action effectively dismantled the smuggling network that had been operating with alarming efficiency.
Sentencing and Judicial Remarks
Judge James Lofthouse delivered strong condemnation of the operation during sentencing, emphasizing how the gang's activities undermined prison safety and security through their systematic delivery service. Mohseni received a sentence of five years and three months in prison as the conspiracy's leader. His six accomplices – Hashim Al-Hussaini, Mohammed Hamoud, Faiz Salah, Zahar Essaghi, Mustafa Ibrahim, and Emanuel Fisniku – were sentenced to terms ranging from 27 to 33 months for their respective roles in the criminal enterprise.
Broader Implications for Prison Security
The case highlights growing concerns about drone technology being weaponized for criminal purposes within correctional systems. With the gang successfully executing dozens of deliveries before being apprehended, prison authorities now face increased pressure to develop more sophisticated countermeasures against aerial smuggling attempts. The judge's comparison to food delivery services underscores how criminals have adapted modern commercial models for illicit activities, presenting new challenges for law enforcement and prison security teams nationwide.
