News item | 17-10-2025 | 17:22
The airspace above the Penitentiary Institution (PI) in Vught will be permanently closed as of December 25, 2025. This puts an end to the temporary closure that has been in force since July 1, 2022. The measure was introduced to increase security in and around the facility and to prevent risks of smuggling, espionage and attempted escape via aircraft.
State Secretary for Justice and Security Arno Rutte: “With this permanent airspace closure, we are taking an important step in combating continued criminal activity from detention. We ensure that prisoners no longer have the opportunity to funnel in or escape resources via drones or other aircraft. The safety of employees, local residents and our society comes first.”
The decision follows a positive advice from the Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management and the State Secretary of Defense, following an earlier request from the Ministry of Justice and Security. The temporary closure has demonstrably contributed to limiting safety risks in recent years. It has therefore been decided to make the measure permanent.