The FBI field office in Newark, New Jersey has issued a warning to residents urging them not to shoot down drones or point lasers at manned aircraft, following an increase in reported drone sightings along the U.S. East Coast. The fear and panic among residents have led to vigilante-like responses on social media, with some individuals taking matters into their own hands, including using laser beams. Authorities have emphasized the dangers of such activities, highlighting instances of pilots being hit in the eyes with lasers after being misidentified as a drone by someone on the ground. There is also concern that people on the ground could mistakenly fire weapons at what they believe to be drones, which might turn out to be manned aircraft.
The FBI, New Jersey State Police, and other agencies have been working to track down operators acting illegally or with nefarious intent in response to the surge in drone sightings. Authorities are cautioning against mistakenly targeting manned aircraft as UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems), as this could have dangerous and potentially deadly consequences. They emphasized the importance of accurate identification and the use of tools and techniques to prevent false sightings. Misidentification often occurs, with UAS being mistaken for more familiar objects like manned aircraft, satellites, or celestial bodies.
Despite frustrations from New Jersey residents and lawmakers about the increase in drone sightings and lack of answers from the federal government, officials have stressed that the drones are not a national security threat. The Pentagon press secretary, Maj. Gen. Patrick S. Ryder, clarified that the drones are not government assets or part of any experimental program being tested by the U.S. Various government agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security, FBI, FAA, and Department of Defense, have stated that there is no evidence that the drones are anomalous or a threat to public safety or national security. Senior officials from the CIA, FBI, and DOD briefed lawmakers on the House Intelligence Committee on the uptick in drone sightings, but it is unclear how these efforts have addressed public concerns.
The FBI reported receiving over 5,000 reports of alleged drone sightings in the past few weeks, indicating the growing panic and concern among residents. Connecticut Rep. Jim Himes called on federal agencies, particularly the FAA, to provide more information about the drone sightings to the public. He emphasized the need for transparency and communication to alleviate fears and fill the information vacuum. The increase in drone sightings has prompted calls for more proactive measures from government agencies to address the situation, ensure public safety, and prevent potential incidents involving drones and manned aircraft.
Overall, the surge in drone sightings along the U.S. East Coast, including New Jersey, has triggered fear and panic among residents. Authorities have warned against dangerous activities such as shooting down drones or pointing lasers at manned aircraft, detailing the potential risks and consequences. While efforts are being made by various government agencies to address the drone sightings, concerns persist among the public and lawmakers regarding the lack of information and clarity surrounding the situation. As officials continue to investigate and monitor the drone activity, the need for enhanced communication and transparency with the public remains crucial to address and allay fears surrounding the mysterious drone sightings.
