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All you need to know about mysterious drone sightings in US’s New Jersey

Amid calls from residents and public officials for action regarding the drone activity, experts are working to determine the situation.

US droneThis photo provided by Brian Glenn shows what appears to be multiple drones flying over Bernardsville, N.J., on Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024 (Brian Glenn/TMX via AP, File)

Weeks of unexplained drone sightings in United States’s New Jersey have left residents, politicians, and public safety officials baffled, raising security concerns.

Amid calls from residents and public officials for action regarding the drone activity, experts are working to determine the situation. On Thursday, the White House’s national security communications adviser, John Kirby, sought to reassure the public, stating there is no threat to safety.

“We have no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or public safety threat, or have a foreign connection,” Kirby said.

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Despite numerous reports of drone sightings, Kirby noted that images and videos reviewed by authorities, as well as state and local law enforcement, indicate many of “the reported sightings are actually manned aircraft being operated lawfully.”

Here’s what you need to know

📌 Dozens of sightings have been reported since November, starting along the Raritan River and spreading statewide, including near the Picatinny Arsenal and Trump’s golf course in Bedminster.

📌 Some drones have been spotted in coastal areas, with reports of them closely following a Coast Guard lifeboat near Barnegat Light and Island Beach State Park.

📌 Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia said some drones are up to 6 feet in diameter, travel with lights off, and seem to avoid detection by traditional methods.

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📌 Experts suggest some witnesses might be mistaking planes or helicopters for drones or misjudging their size due to limited visibility at night.

📌 Authorities do not know who is behind the drones, but investigations have found no evidence suggesting a foreign plot.

📌 New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and law enforcement officials have stated the drones don’t appear to threaten public safety, but stricter regulations have been called for.

📌 The FBI, along with other agencies, is investigating and has urged residents to share any videos, photos, or information about the drones.

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📌 Online speculation includes concerns about nefarious activities, but the Pentagon has ruled out foreign origin or military involvement.

📌 Two congressmen have called for the drones to be shot down, citing safety concerns, though officials maintain they pose no immediate threat.

📌 Drone flying in New Jersey is legal for recreational and commercial purposes but must comply with FAA and local regulations.

📌 Similar drone sightings have been reported in New York, Pennsylvania, and last month near US military bases in the UK.

(With Inputs from Associated press)

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