The FBI says it has seized drones and is enforcing no-fly restrictions around World Cup venues in Atlanta. Multiple outlets report that investigators have already taken at least 13 drones into custody and have warned operators that flying in prohibited areas can lead to enforcement action. One report states that the FBI has made at least one arrest since World Cup matches began, alongside the drone seizures.
Officials are warning that pilots and drone operators must comply with event-related airspace limits and can face significant penalties if they violate them. TechRadar reports potential fines can reach up to $100,000 for non-compliance, while also describing that operators should check the applicable restrictions before flying and follow the rules for operating where permitted.
The reports emphasize that the enforcement effort focuses on aerial activity near stadiums and other sensitive event sites during the tournament. The FBI’s message is that operators should verify whether a location is subject to a no-fly zone and avoid flying where restrictions apply.
