In a joint statement today, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Aviation Administration and the Department of Defense said that in recent weeks the FBI has received more than 5,000 reports of drones in several US states, but only 100 of them merited further investigation.
After examination, the agencies estimate that it is a combination of civilian drones, law enforcement drones, manned aircraft, helicopters, or even stars in the sky that people have seen as drones. The agencies in question state that they have not seen anything abnormal that could pose a risk to national security.
They say they have identified several cases of drones over military facilities in New Jersey, but add that this is nothing new and that they are cooperating with local, federal and state authorities.
However, questions from the American public, as well as some politicians, about the issue of drones continue.
Why have a large number of drones suddenly appeared in the skies of New Jersey? Who sent them? And why?
These questions are being asked everywhere in America, reports A2.
US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said on Sunday that there was no indication of foreign involvement.
He said that the authorities are dealing with this issue, but stressed that resources are scarce.
"I want to assure the American public that we are dealing with this issue. We're working in close coordination with state and local authorities, and it's critical, as we've said for several years, that we get additional drone authority from Congress. Currently, our authority is limited and on the way to expiration. We need to extend it", he said.
New Jersey residents say their usually quiet airspace has been on fire in recent weeks as officials seek answers.
"They are not the size of a commercial plane, but they are the size of a car. Because when they sit down, they look much bigger. I can say that they are not civilian drones. There are so many around New Jersey, all over the state. Everyone has seen them over the last three or four weeks. Imagine how much money that must cost," says Christopher Stadulis, a New Jersey resident.
Top leaders are demanding action.
"Why do we have more questions than answers? We are here today for three reasons. First, to encourage widespread use of a new technology to respond to these drones. "Also to let you know that we will help pass drone legislation, allowing local police departments and state police to assist federal agents in detecting these drones, which has been requested by many," he said.
President-elect Donald Trump dropped his theory on Monday. He did not say whether he received any classified information on the matter.
"The government knows what's going on. They know where they came from and where they're going. And, for some reason, they don't want to comment. I think it would be better if they say what they are. The military and the president know. And for some reason, they want to keep people anxious. I don't think it's the enemy, because if it was, they would destroy the drones. Something strange is going on," Mr. Trump said.
Whatever it is, everyone agrees on one point: they want answers./Voice of America (A2 Televizion)
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