As state officials work to contain an apparent outbreak of bird flu, they are now having to address reports of drone activities at the quarantine sites and those attempting to illegally shoot down the drones or otherwise go after the operators.
"The Indiana Department of Homeland Security, along with local and federal officials, continue to monitor an increase in drone activity near sites where outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza have been identified," according to the agency.
Local law enforcement have received reports of drone activities in the northeast and southern parts of the state and nearby Ohio locations, IDHS said.
"Many of these drones have been reported flying over farms identified by the Board of Animal Health, and some reports have surfaced of people shooting at the drones to bring them down," state officials said.
Shooting at the drones is a crime, the state warns.
"Additionally, the public is warned against chasing down drone operators in cars or otherwise engaging with drone operators who may be illegally flying in the area," according to IDHS. "All reports of drones or personal operators in these counties should be reported to the local county emergency management agency or law enforcement."
Yet Homeland Security officials further warn that many of the reports of drone activity have proven to be unfounded.
The Indiana State Board of Animal Health announced Saturday it has quarantined 2.8 million chickens at a commercial egg laying operation in Jackson County, which is located along Interstate 65 south of Columbus.
"Agricultural areas and farms affected by the avian influenza are quarantined, and any unlawful entry (by drones or citizens) could spread the virus," Homeland Security officials warn.
"Some reports have surfaced to indicate drones have landed on barns in these areas, and there is legitimate concern the drones could transmit disease from one location to the next," according to officials. "Nearby residents should never take action into their own hands but rather contact local officials to report the activity."
The FBI and Federal Aviation Administration are working with state and local officials to monitor airspace.
"Flight restrictions in certain areas are being considered," the state said.
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