THE Council will be using drones a bid to tackle crime in Thurrock.

It will use aerial imagery from the drones to investigate crimes as well as assist with preventing crime.

The drones, also known as unmanned aerial systems (UAS), will also be used for site surveys and other appropriate aerial photography work.

All drone flights will be risk assessed, follow strict Civil Aviation Authority-approved procedures and be operated by qualified UAS pilots.

Strict controls will also be in place to protect the safety and privacy of residents.

Councillor Rob Gledhill, leader of Thurrock Council, said: “Thurrock is a great place to live and work, and we have been very clear that we will not tolerate crimes that blight our borough.

“We are already taking strong action against the culprits. By adding drones to our armoury, we will be in an even better position to capture the evidence needed to prosecute, particularly where sites are difficult to access from the ground.

“We recognise there may be some concerns from residents, however it is important to emphasise that this is about investigating and prosecuting those who break the law.

“Other councils are already successfully using drones and any recordings not relevant to the purpose of the flight will be securely destroyed.”

To find out more, visit thurrock.gov.uk/drones