FBI Seizes 700 Drones and Prosecutes Pilots During 2026 World Cup
Federal authorities concluded the largest civilian anti-drone operation in U.S. history following the 2026 World Cup. FBI Director Kash Patel reported that security teams detected nearly 1,600 drones in restricted airspace during the tournament. Officials seized more than 700 illegal drones and initiated prosecutions against more than 350 pilots for violating flight restrictions. Patel credited multi-agency coordination for preventing significant criminal attacks during the event. The operation involved local and federal partners working as a single team to monitor venue perimeters. This enforcement effort marks a major expansion of domestic drone interdiction and pilot prosecution capabilities.
FBI Director Kash Patel on drone detectionsFBI Director Kash Patel on tournament securityFeds seize hundreds of drones, prosecute pilots over World Cup flights
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Feds seize hundreds of drones, prosecute pilots over World Cup flights
USA TodayCenter Left
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