Drones deployed as fox hunting conflict heats up

• Conflicts over illegal fox hunting in the UK countryside are escalating with the use of drones.
• Hunt saboteurs are using drones to film trail hunts in hopes of exposing illegal fox hunting. Meanwhile, some hunts are using drones equipped with weighted wires, allegedly to disrupt or destroy the saboteurs' drones.
• In one incident, a hunt member allegedly physically assaulted a saboteur and attempted to steal recording equipment. Another hunt member also allegedly assaulted a saboteur who tried to intervene.
• Hunt saboteurs argue that drones are essential for documenting illegal hunting activities, especially in areas difficult to access on foot. The Beaufort Hunt says it does not condone illegal behaviour.
• Police are investigating the alleged assaults and a woman has been arrested.

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Drone wars erupt in countryside as foxhunting battles turn hi-tech