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🇧🇪 Belgium /Crime & Justice

Antwerp Police Seize 8 Drones During Tall Ships Races

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Outcome reported
  • Antwerp police confiscated 8 drones during The Tall Ships Races event between July 10 and 14.
  • Authorities established a temporary aviation zone, requiring prior authorization for drone flights.
  • Nine violations were recorded, including flying within the restricted zone and near the airport, leading to fines and confiscations.

Antwerp police seized eight drones and issued multiple fines during The Tall Ships Races, citing violations of temporary flight restrictions over the city. Between July 10 and July 14, police monitored the airspace and identified nine instances where drone operators disregarded the rules.

A temporary aviation zone was in effect for the event, mandating that drone pilots obtain prior permission to fly. Despite these regulations, several pilots attempted to capture footage, leading to intervention by the authorities. The violations included operating within the restricted zone and breaching regulations concerning the nearby airport.

Police emphasized the potential risks associated with unauthorized drone usage, noting that such devices can pose safety hazards and be exploited for criminal activities. One pilot is under further investigation for multiple safety violations that endangered other airspace users and bystanders. The confiscated drones are currently being analyzed.

Drones can not only pose a safety risk, but can also be used for criminal purposes.

— Antwerp PoliceThe police statement explaining the rationale behind the drone confiscations and increased monitoring.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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