THUNDER BAY – NEWS – The increase in illegal drone activity around correctional facilities is becoming a serious concern-not only for prison security but also for the safety of communities in Ontario.
Drones dropping contraband-such as weapons, drugs, and cell phones-are increasingly associated with organized crime and violence within institutions. However, this problem extends beyond prison walls.
The OPP are aware of this trend and are collaborating with other agencies to stop the delivery of contraband to inmates.
In several instances, packages meant for prisons have missed their intended targets and ended up in public areas. These unintended drops pose significant risks to local residents, particularly when they include hazardous items like fentanyl, knives, or firearms.
Thunder Bay’s correctional facilities, similar to others throughout Ontario, are not exempt from these issues. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and Correctional Service Canada (CSC) are urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious drone activity.
Legal Consequences Are Serious
Flying a drone near a prison without permission can violate federal aviation laws as well as criminal regulations. Those found engaging in these activities-whether on-site or remotely-could face severe penalties, including charges for drug trafficking, mischief, and potentially life imprisonment if lives are put at risk. What You Can Do
Residents living near regional facilities-including those in Thunder Bay, Kenora, and across Ontario-should report any of the following signs right away: Drones operating close to institutions, especially after dark. Look out for flickering or glowing lights and listen for loud buzzing sounds. Drones can travel long distances; sometimes they’re flown from over three kilometers away. Unknown vehicles parked on back roads or in unusual locations-especially those with license plates from other provinces. Suspicious individuals hanging around fields, wooded areas, or trails who might be dressed oddly for the weather and could be carrying remote controllers. If you see something odd, please report it immediately by contacting: OPP: 1-888-310-1122 or 911 for urgent sightings CSC’s National Tip Line: 1-866-780-3784 Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) (anonymous reporting available) Your call could help prevent dangerous items from entering a correctional facility and keep staff members, inmates, and the broader community safe. Together we can disrupt illegal drone operations and make Ontario safer.
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Flying a drone near a prison without permission can violate federal aviation laws as well as criminal regulations. Those found engaging in these activities-whether on-site or remotely-could face severe penalties, including charges for drug trafficking, mischief, and potentially life imprisonment if lives are put at risk. What You Can Do
Residents living near regional facilities-including those in Thunder Bay, Kenora, and across Ontario-should report any of the following signs right away: Drones operating close to institutions, especially after dark. Look out for flickering or glowing lights and listen for loud buzzing sounds. Drones can travel long distances; sometimes they’re flown from over three kilometers away. Unknown vehicles parked on back roads or in unusual locations-especially those with license plates from other provinces. Suspicious individuals hanging around fields, wooded areas, or trails who might be dressed oddly for the weather and could be carrying remote controllers. If you see something odd, please report it immediately by contacting: OPP: 1-888-310-1122 or 911 for urgent sightings CSC’s National Tip Line: 1-866-780-3784 Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) (anonymous reporting available) Your call could help prevent dangerous items from entering a correctional facility and keep staff members, inmates, and the broader community safe. Together we can disrupt illegal drone operations and make Ontario safer.
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