Police force to introduce own fleet of drones

Humberside Police is set to introduce a new fleet of high-tech drones to support operations.

The force said the new equipment, due to launch on 1 April, would assist officers in a range of duties, including searching for missing people and locating offenders.

They would also be used to capture "key evidence" from scenes of crime, a spokesperson added.

Supt Tim Harrison said: "By developing our own drone capability, we've created a valuable policing resource that is highly effective in supporting our operations and helping to keep people safe."

He added: "We can support searches for missing people, track suspects and give officers a clearer picture of what's happening on the ground, helping them make informed decisions and act even faster.

"This means we can improve public safety, reduce risk and deliver a more effective service to our communities."

The force, which serves Hull, the East Riding of Yorkshire, North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire, has received support from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Humberside.

Deputy police and crime commissioner Leo Hammond said: "I am delighted to see this new and improved drone capability, which will help our officers tackle crime and keep our communities, rural, urban and coastal, safe.''

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