A General Atomics Predator B unmanned air vehicle making its law enforcement debut in the USA earlier this year detected 18 alleged criminal acts, assisting in the arrests of eight people and the seizure of 1,100kg (2,400lb) of marijuana.
The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency tested the crime-fighting capabilities of the medium-altitude UAV during a 15-day trial on the US-Mexico border in Arizona, the agency says. Imagery supplied by the Predator B's electro-optical/infrared payload led agents to identify and detain 22 illegal aliens in the remote desert border area. Three vehicles and one firearm were also seized. General Atomics says the Predator B performed "very effectively at night".
The ICE had decided not to publicise the results of the operation, but provided details on request by Flight International. The results will be forwarded to ICE's parent, the US Department of Homeland Security, which is performing an analysis of UAV operational possibilities for surveillance missions.
In a separate move, US border agents have also leased two Israel Aircraft Industries Hermes UAVs to monitor the US-Mexico border region from mid-year.
STEPHEN TRIMBLE / WASHINGTON DC
Source: Flight International
