Covid-19: France police turn to drones to help ensure virus confinement

French Gendarmes use a drone as they patrol the beach of Porticcio on the French Mediterranean island of Corsica on March 21, 2020, closed to the public as a strict lockdown comes into in effect in France to stop the spread of Covid-19. — Photos: AFP

PARIS: With millions locked down across France during the Covid-19 pandemic, overstretched police are struggling to ensure people stay indoors, especially with spring approaching.

Authorities are increasingly turning to drones to patrol streets, parks and riverbanks, and manufacturers are more than happy to meet the demand.