Drone images show how gangsters flood jails with drugs and weapons

Drone Images Reveal Gangsters’ Infiltration of Scottish Prisons with Drugs and Weapons

Drone images captured by the Scottish Prison Service have exposed a concerning trend of criminal gangs using drones to flood Scottish jails with illicit drugs and weapons. One such drone, intercepted earlier this year, was equipped with six rotors and customised to transport drugs, mobile phones, sim cards, and chargers into HMP Perth. This particular drone was just one of nine intercepted by prison authorities, indicating a larger issue at hand. Reports suggest that a staggering number of 66 drones have been spotted around prisons this year, potentially delivering up to 10 kilograms of illegal substances per flight.

The intercepted parcels, containing drugs and phones packaged for delivery to various gangland clients, shed light on the dangerous activities happening behind bars. The influx of drugs fuels violence, intimidation, and coercion within prisons, with incidents of gang-related violence on the rise. Recent data reveals a 72% increase in attacks within two years, with gangland contract violence surpassing £3 million. The influx of crime gang members has spiked by 21%, contributing to the chaos within the prison system.

Tony Martin, Divisional Head of Operational Delivery at the Scottish Prison Service, highlighted the proactive measures taken to prevent contraband from entering prisons. Arrests have been made in collaboration with Police Scotland to tackle the issue. The value of the drugs smuggled inside prisons far exceeds their street value, indicating the involvement of serious organised crime groups. The operation of drones to deliver illegal goods poses a significant threat to the safety and security of prison staff and inmates.

Moreover, the spread of drugs sustains a culture of violence and coercion, with addicted prisoners susceptible to criminal influences. The use of drones for deliveries involves a coordinated effort between external pilots and incarcerated individuals, leading to heightened risks of violence within correctional facilities. The collaboration between prison authorities and law enforcement agencies is crucial in combatting this pervasive issue and safeguarding the integrity of the prison system.

In conclusion, the infiltration of drugs and weapons into Scottish prisons via drones underscores the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining a secure and controlled environment. The repercussions of this illicit trade extend beyond the prison walls, impacting public safety and order. Addressing the root causes of gang-related activities and enhancing surveillance measures are imperative steps in curbing the influence of organised crime in the prison system.