A case has been registered against two United States nationals for allegedly flying a drone near a restricted defence installation in Fort Kochi, police said.
The accused — Katie Michelle Phelps (32) and Christopher Ross Harvey (35), both from California — had reportedly arrived in Kochi as tourists. According to officials at the Fort Kochi police station, the duo was spotted operating a drone to capture videos near the Coast Guard Headquarters on Saturday.
They were noticed by tourism police personnel, who promptly took them into custody.
Fort Kochi, which houses key establishments of the Navy and Coast Guard, has been designated a red zone where drone operations are strictly prohibited due to security concerns. However, officials noted that such violations are not uncommon, as tourists often use drones for videography without being aware of the restrictions.
Police have registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Aircraft Act, and the Drone Rules. The drone used by the accused, along with a laptop in their possession, has been seized.
The two individuals were later released after being served notices to appear before the police as part of the ongoing investigation, officials added.
Also read: Kochi Police recover ₹1 cr lost in cyber fraud with elderly man
Follow us
