Police Catch Unauthorized Drones during MotoGP Preseason Test in Mandalika

TheIndonesia.co - The Indonesian Police has caught five unauthorized drones flying above Mandalika International Street Circuit as it prepared to host the race’s preseason test.

The Mobile Brigade Corps tasked to secure the event used device called “anti-drone jammer” to help catch the drones as it’s feared that they would interfere with the race.

“Based on regulation agreed by the Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation and other concerning parties, unauthorized and illegal drones without permit from MotoGP organizers are not allowed to fly because it might disrupt the race,” chief of public relations at West Nusa Tenggara Police Pol. Grand Commissioner Artanto said on Thursday, February 10, as reported by Antara.

He also warned the public and spectators to not fly their drones around the circuit to avoid unnecessary disturbance to the preseason test that will start on Friday. The police is said to have educated the public on the rule, and if similar incidents happen, it will take necessary actions.

Anti-drone jammers are placed across the brand-new circuit and monitored by police personnel. The device is able to detect drones that fly within two kilometers from the circuit.

Artanto also reminded that Indonesia already has a legal basis related to drone use, which is regulated in Law No. 1/2009 on Aviation.

“It regulates criminal sanctions and fines for those who violate [the rules],” he concluded.