Kannur, Kerala | 12 January, 2026

A security probe has been launched at Kannur Central Jail after a suspected drone was spotted hovering over the prison premises on Saturday afternoon. The incident was reported by the Joint Superintendent, who noticed the object flying near the jail’s cattle shed between 4:20 pm and 4:30 pm, before it moved towards the women’s section of the facility. The Kannur Town Police registered an FIR on Sunday following the complaint.

Officials suspect the drone could have been used to deliver contraband, including drugs, inside the high-security area. This comes at a time when the jail has already thwarted multiple smuggling attempts in recent months. Authorities recalled that hashish oil was recently recovered from a prisoner, highlighting ongoing security challenges.

The police confirmed that the drone sighting is being thoroughly investigated. Jail officials believe that such drones may be used for covert deliveries, and an inquiry is underway to ascertain whether the device carried any illegal substances or materials.

In response to the threat, the prison administration has tightened security protocols, including deploying additional personnel to watchtowers, enhancing surveillance, and monitoring aerial activity around the jail. The incident has raised concerns about emerging threats to prison security from drone technology, prompting vigilance across high-security prisons in Kerala.

 Drone Suspicion Triggers Probe at Kannur Central Jail, Kerala

Authorities in Kerala have launched a full-scale investigation after a suspected drone was sighted over the Kannur Central Jail on Saturday. The incident was reported by the Joint Superintendent of the jail, prompting the Kannur Town Police to register an FIR on Sunday.

According to the complaint, a drone-like object was seen flying near the jail’s cattle shed between 4:20 pm and 4:30 pm, before moving toward the women’s prison section. Jail officials immediately alerted the authorities, believing the device could be attempting to smuggle contraband into the high-security facility.

In recent months, several smuggling attempts, including drugs, have been intercepted near the jail. Police confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine if the suspected drone was carrying any illegal items. Notably, hashish oil had recently been recovered from an inmate.

Following the incident, prison authorities have tightened security measures, deploying extra personnel to watchtowers and closely monitoring aerial activity to prevent illegal drone usage over the premises.