The Plateau State Police Command has warned individuals and corporate organisations against operating drones without the required approvals, saying violators risk arrest, confiscation of their equipment and prosecution.
The Command said the warning was aimed at strengthening security, protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring compliance with regulations governing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, across the state.
In a public notice issued on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alfred Alabo, said the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) is the agency responsible for issuing permits and approvals for drone operations in Nigeria.
According to the Command, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations 2023, particularly Part 17 on Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), prohibit the operation of drones without the required approval and an approved security programme.
The police said operators are expected to submit their security programmes before commencing operations, while also providing details of proposed flight locations, schedules and safety measures.
The Command further warned that drones must not be used for unlawful purposes, including transporting unauthorised cargo, weapons or explosives.
It also cautioned against operating drones in ways that could cause death, serious injury, property damage, environmental harm or endanger public safety.
Drone operators were advised to observe established safety protocols, including maintaining visual contact with their drones, complying with approved flight altitudes and staying away from restricted and no-fly zones.
The police also warned that unauthorised drone operations that violate individuals’ privacy could amount to harassment, intimidation, trespass or conduct capable of causing a breach of the peace.
“The Command hereby cautions individuals and corporate bodies against illegal drone operations and advises them to comply with extant regulations,” Alabo said.
The Command added that, in collaboration with other security agencies, it would deploy all lawful means to arrest offenders, impound drones operated in violation of existing regulations and prosecute those found culpable.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious drone activities to the nearest police station or the Command’s Control Room.
The Plateau Police Command stressed that it would not allow the state’s airspace to become “a theatre of lawlessness” capable of compromising public safety and security.
