Farmers fear drones used by burglars ahead of raids

Senator David Norris last week highlighted the concerns of farmers in Co Tipperary who believe they are being targeted by burglars using drones (unmanned aerial vehicles) to reconnoitre their properties.

Mr Norris called for drone controls in a Seanad debate last week, after a farmer in Littleton, Co Tipperary said drones were spotted locally at night-time, recording on a night-vision camera over his farm, and other local people had a similar experience.

He suspected burglars are using drones in preparation for robbing homes in the locality, which has been hit by a crime wave.

In the past three years, nearly every business premises and farmhouse within a 15km radius of Littleton has been burgled, with many hit on multiple occasions.

Mr Norris said drones are now a favourite toy at Christmas, which can be bought for €100. He said the drones in Tipperary were obviously being used to survey the farm for the purpose of burglary.

“The drones are able to get details on the layout, the entrances, the exits and the whole plan of a farm.

“This is very intrusive and it should be controlled.”