On April 13, 2016, during a routine drone surveillance training operation at HMP Northward, two males carrying nap sacks were spotted leaving the area surrounding the prison through the bushes. The Bodden Town Police Station was alerted and responded quickly. Staff also was able to assist by moving quickly to the area where the persons were seen by the drone. Although no persons were apprehended, a large quantity of ganja was recovered that had been already thrown onto the prison compound before detected by the drone.

A group of employees have been undergoing intensive training on the operation of the drone which will aid in surveillance of the large estate and the surrounding areas which are mostly covered with vegetation and farmland. The vacant land leaves the prisons perimeter vulnerable to those intent on trafficking contraband. However, with the aid of the drone, more area can be covered and once detected, will be able to assist in locating suspects and drugs.

The training was been supervised by AirVu, the local drone service provider and trainer of the prison drone surveillance program.

Pictured:

Prison Staff including Deputy Director Daniel Greaves (center), Supervisor Maxine Spalding and Officer Roger Johnson get in flight hours with the Prison’s drone.