Prisons Watchdog Warns of Drones Delivering Weapons to High-Security Jails in England

England’s prison system is facing a dire national security threat as drones delivering contraband, including weapons, have become alarmingly frequent at two of the country’s highest-security prisons.

The chief inspector of prisons, Charlie Taylor, has issued a stark warning about the growing danger at HMP Manchester and HMP Long Lartin in Worcestershire, both housing some of the nation’s most dangerous inmates, including terrorists and organised crime bosses.

In reports detailing damning findings, Mr. Taylor revealed a significant escalation in drone activity, with devices capable of carrying payloads of up to 3lb (1.3kg).

Contraband such as drugs, mobile phones, and “zombie knives” have already been smuggled in, and the watchdog has cautioned that firearms could soon follow.

“This is a threat to national security,” Mr. Taylor told. “The potential for serious weapons to get into our prisons means there is a heightened risk of armed violence, escapes, or even hostage situations. These risks are especially critical in Category A prisons, where the inmates are among the riskiest in the country.”

Prison Security Under Siege

The reports painted a troubling picture of conditions at both prisons. At HMP Manchester, drones were observed circling regularly during nighttime hours, exploiting vulnerabilities such as broken CCTV systems and ineffective anti-drone netting.

Prisoners were reportedly using GPS apps on smuggled phones to guide deliveries to precise locations within the prison.

HMP Long Lartin, which houses individuals convicted of terrorism offences, faces similar issues. Gangs have been dropping contraband in black plastic bags, which are easily concealed among litter and waste collected by inmates. Some even camouflage items in balls of grass to avoid detection.

Prison walls and windows have proven inadequate barriers. At Manchester, inmates have repeatedly smashed £5,000 cell windows faster than repairs can be made, further facilitating the flow of illicit goods.

Emerging Risks and Government Response

Mr. Taylor raised the alarming prospect of firearms making their way into prisons, potentially enabling armed attacks on staff, hostage-taking, or aiding in escapes. “In effect, the airspace above our prisons has been ceded to organised crime gangs,” he said.

While the government has taken steps to address these vulnerabilities, including installing new CCTV systems and anti-drone netting at HMP Manchester, critics argue that these measures may not be enough.

The Ministry of Justice acknowledged the crisis, stating that it had “inherited prisons in crisis” and was working to improve maintenance, security, and capacity.

Social Media and Organised Crime

Videos of drones delivering contraband to prisons, some posted on social media platforms like TikTok, highlight the brazenness of these operations. The footage often shows drones approaching prison windows, underscoring the urgency for stronger countermeasures.

Mr. Taylor called for immediate and coordinated action from prison authorities, the police, and security services to regain control over the airspace above England’s high-security prisons.

Without decisive intervention, the risks of violence, organised crime, and potential escapes loom large, threatening public safety and the integrity of the prison system.