Prison officer patrols around Westgate prison will be stepped up after a drone was seen hovering above the facility.

Wayne Caines, the Minister of National Security, said plans were being drawn up to make the area around the Ireland Island North prison a “no-fly zone”. Mr Caines also warned the use of technology to commit crimes would not be tolerated.

Acting Commissioner of Corrections Keeva-Mae Joell-Benjamin contacted Mr Caines early on Sunday and told him that a drone was spotted flying over the prison.

Police were also alerted to the drone sighting.

Mr Caines said: “While there is no evidence indicating the drone was used for illegal purposes, I want to remind the public that it is an offence to drop contraband into prison grounds, and the use of technology to commit criminal offences will not be tolerated.

“As a precaution, patrols in the area will be enhanced, prisoners will be closely monitored and any persons found committing offences will be brought before the courts.”

A government spokesman said meetings were to be held with the ministers responsible for telecommunications and transport, telecommunications companies and the Attorney-General “to find immediate solutions to prevent future occurrences and to make those areas a no-fly zone”.