Concerns are escalating in New Jersey as unexplained drones continue to be sighted.
According to Irish Star, the Federal Aviation Authority has widened the no-fly zone for drones across 31 districts due to ongoing, unexplained sightings.
These aerial objects, some as big as vehicles, have been frequently spotted in counties including Somerset, Ocean, and Bergen, alarming residents and authorities. The response from federal agencies has been rapid but remains shrouded in uncertainty.
To control this situation, the FAA and Homeland Security have expanded no-fly zones while the FBI has scrutinized these reports closely, finding a small fraction credible. Despite this, the majority of sightings remain unexplained, adding to the local community's unease.
Ocean County Sheriff Michael G. Mastronardy revealed that his deputies have spied these drones emerging from the ocean and despite attempts to follow, they haven't been able to match the drones' speed or maneuverability. Following an emergency declaration in December, Ocean County has reached out to federal authorities for aid in tackling these mysterious drone activities.
U.S. Representative Jeff Van Drew has expressed significant concerns about these occurrences, suggesting the possibility of foreign surveillance. "Something's very wrong," remarked the congressman, emphasizing the strange and sophisticated nature of these drones.
In a statement, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby assured the public that these drones pose no threat to national security or public safety: "We have not identified anything anomalous or any national security or public safety risk over the civilian airspace in New Jersey or other states in the Northeast."
However, Sheriff Shaun Golden of Monmouth County reports a disturbing increase in drone activity after sundown, which has heightened safety concerns among residents. "Residents are increasingly alarmed by the surge in drone activity after dark, raising concerns about public safety and security," he noted.
Sheriff Golden is calling for immediate government action to address these issues: "We cannot wait any longer. The Governor must act now, and the Air National Guard needs to step in to protect our communities."
Congressman Van Drew's frustration is palpable in his recent statements reflecting the community's anxiety and the lack of clear information from federal agencies about these drones. Congressman Jeff Van Drew shared his intense concerns about the lack of clarity and potential risks, framing the situation as an urgent mystery needing resolution:
"We've got unidentifiable, sophisticated drones, as big as minivans, carefully navigating airspace that's not covered by radar, in a very important part of our country, and still, a month later, we somehow don't know anything. We're being told, 'Don't worry, everything's okay.'
Amidst the ongoing investigations and heightened security measures, the FAA's recent expansion of the drone exclusion zone reflects a proactive approach to an issue wrapped in uncertainty.
The FAA and other federal bodies continue to implement stricter regulations and surveillance in the affected districts while local law enforcement remains on high alert. Cooperation between county and federal responses highlights the complexity of this security challenge. As officials and residents await more definitive answers, the story of New Jersey’s mysterious drones underscores a broader debate on surveillance, privacy, and the adequacy of current technological regulations in airspace management.
In conclusion, the presence of unidentified drones in New Jersey has led to increased security measures, an expansion of no-fly zones, and ongoing investigations into their origins and purposes. Officials urge swift action, even as they reassure the public of no immediate threat to national security or public safety.
