British bases customs officers trained to operate drones

Seven customs and immigration officers at British bases in Cyprus are currently undergoing professional drone pilot training provided by United Kingdom experts. This initiative aims to enhance surveillance capabilities to better combat illegal immigration and smuggling activities, particularly near the buffer zone. Head of the department Mark Hartley noted that the drones will assist with risk assessments and environmental monitoring without replacing manual operations. The technology has already begun supporting various internal departments with aerial surveys and site management.