Dutch police to expand drone use for serious traffic violations

The Dutch police intend to increase the use of drones to enforce serious traffic rules, including ignoring red lights and reverse driving on motorways. In the recent Amsterdam trial, a sizable drone was controlled by a two-person team: one pilot managed flight while the other operated the camera to capture clear images of offenses. A fine can only be issued after the pilot directly observes the violation, just as a police officer or Rijkswaterstaat inspector must do.

The experiment received positive feedback, and the Public Prosecution Service has authorized the method for use across the country. Officials say the technology frees emergency responders from having to monitor traffic violations while providing aid at accident scenes.