SETIU: The public have been warned not to deploy drones without authorisation for the 2017 Sea Games from Aug 19-31.
Federal police internal security and public order director Commissioner Datuk Zulkifli Abdullah said that one needs to obtain prior permission from the Department of Civil Aviation which was the authority having jurisdiction over the matter.
Kuala Lumpur is the main city hosting the Games, with several other towns hosting a variety of events including Kuala Terengganu which will host the equestrian endurance race at the Terengganu International Endurance Park (TIEP) in Lembah Bidong in Setiu.
“This is to avoid unnecessary risks to visitors, spectators, athletes and officials, especially VIPs like ministers and sultans.
“Flying unauthorised drones may cause serious and fatal accidents with just too many whizzing around uncontrollably, especially during a mega event like the Sea Games,” he said after inspecting the TIEP, adding that police had the right to seize the drones.
Present was Terengganu police chief Deputy Commissioner Datuk Aidi Ismail.
Asked if organisations like the mass media could use such drones, he advised them to first seek approval from the DCA which will then notify police air unit.
Zulkifli added he was satisfied with the safety and security at TIEP which would host the 80km equestrian endurance events for individuals and teams, with two gold medals at stake.
The Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin is expected to compete in the races.
A total of 350 uniformed officers from the police, including General Operations Force, Special Action Unit and VAT 69 commandos, will be posted at TIEP for the duration of the Games’ event.