FBI seizes drones, cites pilots near SoFi Stadium during the World Cup
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Federal officials said they seized drones and cited pilots near the SoFi Stadium for allegedly violating temporary flight restrictions during Friday’s World Cup game.The Federal Aviation Administration prohibits all aircraft operations, including drone flights, within a 3-nautical-mile radius and up to 3,000 feet above ground level around certain stadiums hosting World Cup matches.But some drone pilots broke those rules and law enforcement officials cited them for the alleged violations, the FBI in Los Angeles said in a social media post on Saturday.The agency posted photos of the seized drones and an image of a drone pilot getting cited.The post didn’t say how many pilots were cited or how many drones were seized.
The agency also didn’t disclose what technology was used to track down the drone pilots.Law enforcement agencies across various states are taking action against drone pilots who violate the FAA’s temporary flight restrictions during World Cup soccer matches.On Thursday, the FBI office in Atlanta said the agency seized drones from three operators for allegedly violating these rules.
World & Nation The upcoming World Cup will feature 48 teams and 104 matches across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, including in Los Angeles, posing a range of security issues.Ahead of the game, the FAA warned drone operators that they could get their drone seized, face federal criminal charges and fines of up to $100,000 if they run afoul of these restrictions.“As fans from around the world gather at stadiums and fan events across the country for the FIFA World Cup, the FAA is using every available tool to protect the airspace, including stronger drone-enforcement efforts,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford in a statement in May.
“Drone operators should expect swift action if they violate restricted airspace.”The SoFi Stadium in Inglewood is hosting eight Worl...