New police powers to combat drone misuse

Officers will be able to issue fixed-penalty notices for minor drone offences to ensure immediate and effective enforcement of the new rules. Fines of up to £100 could be given for offences such as failing to comply with an officer when instructed to land a drone, or not showing valid registration to operate one. They will also be able to search premises and seize drones – including the electronic data stored on the device – where a serious offence has been committed and a warrant is secured. The Home Office will also begin testing and evaluating the use of counter-drone technology at airports and prisons. The exclusion zone around airports where drones are banned from flying will also be extended, and from November 30, operators of drones between 250g and 20kg will need to be registered and take an online competency test. Changes to legislation last year already make it illegal to fly a drone above 400ft or within 1km of an airport. Aviation Minister Liz Sugg said the mass disruption at Gatwick in the run-up to Christmas due to reported drone sightings, which affected around 1,000 flights, was “a stark example of why continued action is required to make sure drones are used safely and securely in the UK”.

 (Read the full story here: Police Professional)