Drone Surveillance

The use of drones in our investigations is carefully considered on a case by case basis, when traditional methods of investigation may not be an option. Whether you are a private individual needing evidence to prove criminal activity, a business owner, local council or working within the public sector, our investigators are on hand 24/7 to discuss whether the use of drone surveillance is legal and appropriate for your specific case

Drone surveillance is a relatively new tool in the box for investigators. Insight Investigations always strives to be ahead of the curve when it comes to the latest technology and tactics in order to get to the truth of a situation. Working with qualified commercial drone pilots, we offer an aerial surveillance service for cases that need this specific kind of approach.

Our highly trained drone operators use the most advanced drones and camera technology to provide the best quality evidence for your case. From using sophisticated thermal imaging cameras, to state-of-the-art AI capabilities, Insight’s drone operators are experts in capturing evidence in this highly specialised field. 

At Insight Investigations we would never use drone operatives for a case if not absolutely needed. Not only do we consider whether the case needs that level of surveillance, but we also take into consideration the ethics, privacy issues and legal implications of using drones in our operations.

The use of drones can easily be abused by rogue operators and their use can quickly encroach on a person’s human rights as well as the wider public’s right to privacy.

It’s essential that when drones are used it still falls within the parameters of UK law and the code of ethics we at Insight Investigations adhere to. Unfortunately, the laws surrounding the use of drones in private investigations is incredibly complex and not overtly clear. As such we have worked with our drone pilots and operations team to establish a clear code of conduct which we use to self-govern and regulate our activity.

Our code of conduct means that we will never deploy drones for a matrimonial case where there is single person or couple under investigation. Using drones to follow individuals where the only wrongdoing is that of moral question (i.e. infidelity) does not warrant the use of a drone.

The only time we use drones is to prove criminal intent or behaviour. When the question is not a moral one but one of legality then the use of drones will be considered in order to obtain the most pertinent evidence that can protect individuals or the public.

Some of the scenarios we would deploy our specialist drone team could include….

• To prove anti-social behaviour in a neighbourhood or community from ‘neighbours from hell’ right through to gang activity in a particular area

• To prove theft from a company, if employees are breaking the law and stealing from their employer, but evidence is hard to obtain, then drones can be used to gather evidence

• To prove individuals or refuse companies are fly tipping.  We often work with local authorities offering discreet drone surveillance to help combat fly tipping and the damage it can cause to the local environment

• To prove trespassing or illegal activity happening on private land in rural locations, whether that be ‘County Lines’ drug dealing which is impacting on agricultural businesses or any other type of illegal activity, then drones can often be a way of gathering evidence in locations where on foot agents would be spotted

• To prove criminal activity or intent of any kind. If there is any suspicion that an individual or group is breaking the law, or planning to break the law, and evidence must be gathered then drones will be considered based on the level of criminal activity

In addition to our strict code of conduct, we also ensure that we only work with the best drone operators. Due to the strict regulations and ever-changing government legislation regarding drone usage, we require all our drone operators to hold a valid ‘licence’. As it currently stands in the UK, this is known as a ‘Permission for Commercial Operation’ or PfCO and is issued by the UK Civil Aviation Authority. Only deploying highly trained licenced operators ensures the evidence obtained meets the standards needed both legally and ethically.

For more information about how drone surveillance could be beneficial for your particular case please call us on the number below or visit our contact us page and fill in the form.