Two suspects detained after drone attempted to deliver contraband to Portlaoise prison
Gardaí arrested two men following a report that a drone was flown toward the Portlaoise Prison campus, where it crashed and was recovered.
A drone was reportedly directed at the Irish Prison Service College in Portlaoise at approximately 3 p.m., prompting a rapid Garda response. Firefighters assisted in securing the device, which has now been handed over for forensic analysis to determine its payload. Two individuals were arrested on the scene and are being held for further questioning.
An Garda Síochána confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, and the Irish Prison Service said it is working closely with the police. No details have been released about what the drone was carrying, though similar incidents have involved phones, drugs or other prohibited items. Officials declined to provide additional information while the probe proceeds.
Why it matters
It highlights ongoing security challenges in Irish prisons and the use of drones for illicit smuggling.
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