Northumberland OPP is sounding the alarm around illegal drone activities near correctional facilities like Warkworth Institution, calling the matter “a growing threat.”
What’s more, police have issued a stern warning about the consequences in these incidents and are renewing their appeal for citizens to speak up if they see suspicious behaviour.
Northumberland OPP said drone drops of contraband aren’t just an issue for Correctional Service of Canada – “they’re a public safety concern.”
“Not only do these drops fuel violence, substance use disorder and organized crime inside prisons, but also in our communities, particularly as unsuccessful drone drop packages have been found in publicly accessible areas containing weapons and drugs,” stressed police.
As previously reported, CSC institutions, including at Warkworth, often report seizures as a result of suspected drone drops – an area of increasing concern in more recent years.
“Operating a drone near a prison without authorization may violate federal aviation regulations and criminal laws,” added police, noting that individuals, including offenders, can face serious charges ranging from drug-trafficking to mischief-related offences and penalties that can range from fines to life imprisonment when lives are endangered.
“We need your help,” said OPP, in its latest appeal, while calling on residents to contact OPP at 1-888-310-1122 for immediate drone sightings or the CSC’s tip line at 1-866-780-3784. Citizens are also reminded that tips can be shared anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477.
Police are asking residents to speak up if they see or hear drones near an institution, especially at night. Drones often have glowing or flickering lights and emit a loud buzzing sound and can fly three kilometres or further, noted OPP.
What’s more, again, if people see suspicious vehicles – unfamiliar ones or those stopped or pulled over on backroads or vehicles with out-of-province licence plates – they’re encouraged to reach out. The same goes for suspicious people loitering, especially if people are equipped with remote controls and/or appear unfamiliar with the area or are standing in fields, swamps and/or trails and dressed inappropriately for the environment.
“Your report could be instrumental in preventing dangerous items from entering an institution and help protect staff, inmates and your community,” stressed police.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
