Dog Detects Suspected Drone-Smuggling Plot at Prison

A police dog uncovered an alleged drug smuggler hiding in a bush after a drone was seen attempting to deliver items into a Liverpool prison.

Merseyside Police’s dog unit was alerted to HMP Liverpool in Walton when reports indicated a drone had tried to land in a prison courtyard before veering toward a nearby field.

In the early hours of Monday, Police Dog Ike and his handlers discovered the drone and its remote control in a field between Stuart Road and Maguire Road. Following the scent, Ike then tracked down a man hiding in a bush, suspected of operating the drone. Attached to the drone was a package containing cannabis resin, tobacco, SIM cards, mobile phone notes, and drill bits, according to Merseyside Police.

A 34-year-old man, with no fixed address, was subsequently arrested on suspicion of attempting to smuggle banned items into a prison, possessing a prohibited firearm, and possessing cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply.

Chief Inspector Jordan Quinn praised the operation, saying, "Thanks to the diligent work and sharp nose of PD Ike, our officers swiftly acted on the information from prison staff, intercepting the suspect and seizing the drone."

He added, "Merseyside Police remains committed to finding proactive ways to prevent the illegal use of drones through technology and, importantly, through information from our communities."