Gardaí catch drones carrying drugs to Portlaoise prisons
One of the drones that was intercepted in Portlaoise this week. Photo: An Garda Síochána Laois Offaly
DRONES delivering contraband to prisons in Portlaoise this week were intercepted by gardaí two days in a row, as part of a special operation.
Drugs, phones and other prohibited goods were among the items seized, after drones destined for the Midlands and Portlaoise Prison complex were stopped.
Gardaí in Portlaoise were supported by the Divisional Drugs Unit and Detective Unit, during the operation targeting the use of drones to deliver contraband into the prison complex on the Dublin Road.
On Monday 2 March, gardaí intercepted a drone believed to be destined for the complex, where both the Midlands Prison and the maximum security Portlaoise Prison are located.
According to gardaí, the drone was carrying a package containing suspected drugs, mobile phones and other prohibited items. A person allegedly controlling the drone was arrested and subsequently charged to appear before the courts.
On Tuesday 3 March, a second drone was located in close proximity to the prison. This drone also had a package containing contraband material.
In a statement today, gardaí said: ‘These incidents highlight the ongoing efforts by An Garda Síochána, working in partnership with the Irish Prison Service, to prevent the smuggling of drugs, phones and other harmful materials into our prison system.
‘Gardaí in Portlaoise greatly appreciate the continued support of the local community. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity involving drones, particularly in areas close to the prison complex.’
Gardaí asked anyone who observes ‘unusual drone activity or suspicious behaviour’ near the prison complex to contact Portlaoise Garda Station on 057 8674100 or any Garda Station, or call 999 or 112.
