Prime Minister Denounces Privacy Invasion by Drone Operator George Wehner

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has accused a man of invading his privacy using drones to film his property, describing the incidents as distressing and offensive.

Speaking on Pointe FM on Saturday, Mr. Browne alleged that in 2017, a drone was flown around his residence, capturing footage through windows and across his property. He claimed that the incident caused his wife significant fear and forced her to flee the house.

“She was so afraid. I wasn’t home, and when she was leaving, she ran away from the house because the drone was all in our windows, all on our gallery,” he said.

According to the Prime Minister, the individual responsible was taken into police custody after his wife provided photographic evidence of the vehicle associated with the drone. However, the man was released after 48 hours.

Mr. Browne also alleged that his home was burgled the night after the drone incident, with a safe stolen. While he stopped short of directly linking the two events, he described the timing as suspicious.

The Prime Minister went on to claim that the same individual used drones to film other locations, including his farm and a house on his property where a student was staying temporarily. He also accused the man of flying a drone over a public facility, the Boys Training School.

“These actions are a clear violation of privacy,” Mr. Browne said, questioning whether such behavior could amount to harassment or intimidation.

In addition, the Prime Minister alleged that the man had a previous altercation with a police officer, describing him as someone who “lacks respect for authority and personal boundaries.”

Mr. Browne’s comments have reignited concerns about the misuse of drone technology and its implications for personal privacy. While drones are increasingly used for legitimate purposes, incidents of unauthorized surveillance have highlighted the need for stricter regulations.

There has been no official response from the accused individual, and no further legal action has been reported. The police have not issued a statement regarding the allegations.

The Prime Minister’s remarks come as debates around privacy and drone usage continue to grow, raising questions about the balance between technological advancements and safeguarding personal rights.

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