Criminal investigation launched into mysterious drones at RAF Feltwell

A criminal investigation has been launched into mysterious swarms of drones spotted over an RAF base throughout the past week.

An unidentified aircraft buzzed around RAF Feltwell over a number of days last weekend - while there were also reports of them in the vicinity on Tuesday.

The US and British military have been tight-lipped over the incidents and whether Vladimir Putin or pranksters might be behind them - and the uncertainty has been felt in Feltwell.

And at a Parliament debate on Wednesday, it was confirmed that a criminal investigation has been kick-started.

Speaking in the House of Lords, Lord Vernon Coaker said: “The Ministry of Defence is aware of these reports and is working closely with the US visiting forces, Home Office police forces and other partners to respond to recent events.

“We will work with the civil authorities to prosecute those responsible. We take any safety issues seriously and maintain robust measures at Ministry of Defence sites, including counter-drone capabilities.

“My noble friend will understand that I am unable to comment further on the specific security procedures at our sites. This remains a live criminal investigation.”

The drones around RAF Feltwell, which is operated by the US military, have prompted concerns from local councillors.

There have been calls for better communication with residents following events such as this.

Lord Coaker pointed out that flying drones near these military sites is illegal, and added: “People should be aware of that, and local communities should be reassured.”

He also said that “there are penalties of up to 14 years for this sort of activity”.

Drones have also been spotted over American bases at Mildenhall and Lakenheath in Suffolk.