Kent Police have deployed drones to patrol hotspots on the A2 near Darenth and the M20 near Snodland after reports of dangerous criminal damage to moving vehicles on these busy roads.
On the evening of Thursday, November 7, 2024, several motorists were struck by flying objects that caused damage to car windows and bodywork. At approximately 5:50pm on the A2, objects were thrown from beside the road, shattering vehicle windows. Later that evening, between 9pm and 10pm on the M20, drivers reported similar damage believed to be caused by items dropped from a bridge.
Although police have not confirmed a direct link between the two incidents, they responded quickly by increasing patrols with unmarked vehicles and deploying drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras to monitor the areas for further criminal activity.
Chief Inspector Craig West of Kent Police issued a strong warning: “Throwing or firing items at moving traffic is incredibly dangerous, and it is fortunate nobody was injured as a result of either of these incidents. Anyone found to have been responsible for putting road users in danger can expect to be arrested and brought before the courts.”
The drones are used to patrol footpaths and wooded areas adjacent to the roads, helping officers to detect suspicious behaviour swiftly. Volunteer officers from the Special Constabulary are also assisting with the patrols, enhancing crime prevention efforts along the affected routes.
Kent Police are urging anyone with information about these incidents to come forward. Reports can be made online at the Kent Police website, quoting reference 46/189304/24 for the A2 incident or 46/190243/24 for the M20 incident. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
Originally published by UKNIP.
