Mayors left feeling perplexed after drone meeting as federal leaders dispute over drones’ origins

Dozens of New Jersey’s mayors met with representatives from the New Jersey State Police on Wednesday to discuss the sightings.

Matt Trapani and Tom Krosnowski

Dec 11, 2024, 12:28 PM

Updated 18 days ago

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The issue regarding dozens of drones spotted flying over New Jersey is heating up as local, state and federal leaders discuss the incidents.
Dozens of New Jersey’s mayors met with representatives from the New Jersey State Police on Wednesday to discuss the sightings. But many told News 12 they left feeling frustrated and with more questions than answers.
Among their unanswered questions - who is flying these drones and for what reason?
Republican Rep. Jeff Van Drew suggests “neutralizing” the drones out of the sky so they may be studied. He went on to allege that the drones are coming from an Iranian mothership - a theory the Pentagon categorically denied.
“There is not any truth to that. There is no Iranian shop off the coast of the United States and there is no so-called ‘mother ship’ launching drones toward the United States,” said Department of Defense Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh.
Those in attendance did learn some facts about these drones. Officials said they are not being flown by the U.S. Military or a large tech company. The U.S. Coast Guard is monitoring the shoreline for any potential base. The drones are also not emitting any radio frequencies, complicating tracking.
“We the people are going to have to start figuring out - eyes on it, where are they coming from, where are they landing - they say they’re up for six to seven hours a night. That’s huge,” said Pequannock Mayor Ryan Herb.
“Whoever’s doing this is tiptoeing right through the federal and state laws,” said Mine Hill Mayor Sam Morris.
Officials have repeatedly claimed there is no known threat to the public from these drones.
“I genuinely believe what these guys are telling us. But what they’re telling us is not OK,” said Morris.
“How can we, in 2024, not know where these drones are taking off from and where they’re landing? That to me, doesn’t make any sense,” said Montgomery Township Mayor Neena Singh.
The White House says President Joe Biden has been briefed on the issue.
The FBI asks that residents share any videos or photos they may have of the flights, along with any other relevant information by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submitting a tip online.