A series of mysterious drone sightings have raised concerns among residents in central and northern New Jersey since mid-November. These large aerial drones have been observed at night, leading to citizens sharing videos on social media and prompting local and state officials to seek answers. Recently, lawmakers from New York and New Jersey urged federal agencies, including the FBI, FAA, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to provide insights into the situation.
The senators expressed their alarm over the unidentified unmanned aerial system (UAS) activity, requesting urgent briefings to understand how the agencies are collaborating with law enforcement to resolve the issue.
According to the DHS, it remains unclear who is operating these drones, but it confirmed that New Jersey state agencies are not involved. While routine drone registration with the FAA is required for any drone weighing over 0.55 pounds, there may be concerns about non-compliance among certain operators. The investigation is ongoing, with officials still trying to gather specifics about the drones involved.
Despite the uptick in reports, current assessments by the FBI and DHS suggest there are no credible threats associated with these sightings. White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby indicated that many reported drones may actually be lawful manned aircraft, though the claims have been met with skepticism by local officials, particularly from Mine Hill, New Jersey, who demanded more transparency and recognition of their concerns.
Legally, individuals cannot shoot down or capture a drone, as doing so poses risks to safety and property. According to the DHS, reacting with force against a drone is illegal under federal law, carrying hefty fines and potential prison time. Instead, the public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement or state security offices.
As communities await further clarity on the origins and intentions behind these drone sightings, officials emphasize adherence to regulatory practices while exploring technological means to address potential violations.
Hope remains that with continued federal efforts and cooperation with local authorities, the mystery surrounding these drone occurrences can soon be unraveled, ensuring the safety and peace of mind of New Jersey residents. Additionally, public awareness and proactive reporting can foster greater community involvement in maintaining airspace safety.