The FBI field office in Newark issued a warning to New Jersey residents this week, advising against shooting down drones or pointing lasers at manned aircraft due to the potential dangers and risks involved. This caution comes in response to an increase in reported drone sightings along the U.S. East Coast, leading to a sense of panic among residents.
Social media has been abuzz with photos and videos of suspected drones in the night sky, fueling fear and prompting some individuals to take matters into their own hands, including using laser beams. The FBI and New Jersey State Police jointly released a statement emphasizing the hazards of such actions, highlighting instances where pilots of manned aircraft have been targeted with lasers, mistaking them for drones.
The authorities stressed the importance of accurate identification to prevent false sightings, as misidentifying a manned aircraft as a drone could have severe consequences. They mentioned that tools and techniques are available to assist in visually identifying suspected drones to ensure safety and appropriate responses.
Despite public concerns and frustrations over the surge in drone sightings, U.S. officials have clarified that the drones do not pose a national security threat. The Department of Homeland Security, FBI, FAA, and Department of Defense stated that there is no evidence to suggest the drones are anomalous or a danger to public safety or national security.
The FBI reported receiving over 5,000 reports of alleged drone sightings in recent weeks, indicating the heightened anxiety among residents. Lawmakers, including Rep. Jim Himes, have called for increased transparency from federal agencies, particularly the FAA, to provide more information to the public regarding the drone sightings.
Efforts are underway to address the concerns raised by the public, with senior officials briefing lawmakers on the House Intelligence Committee about the escalating drone sightings. However, the extent to which these efforts will alleviate public worries remains uncertain.
