Kent Police high-tech drone squad scored a major win, using thermal imaging and a trusty police dog to find a missing man in freezing conditions near Maidstone. The man, in his 30s and suffering a mental health crisis, had wandered into dense woodland near Junction 8 of the M20, stripped to his waist in icy weather.
[block_2]
Drone Tech: Game-Changer for Kent Police
In 2025 alone, Kent Police used drones to track down 16 missing people, nab 58 suspected criminals, and recover 22 stolen vehicles and other property. Drone pilots were called into action over 1,100 times — up from 999 in 2024 — marking the highest deployment ever for the force.
“They remain a vital asset for Kent Police, helping catch crooks, solve crime, and keep Kent’s communities safe.”