2 US Tourists Booked for Flying Drone Near Coast Guard HQ in Kochi

KOCHI, Mar 22: A case has been registered against two US nationals for allegedly flying a drone near the Coast Guard Headquarters, police said on Sunday.

The accused, identified as Katie Michelle Phelps (32) and Christopher Ross Harvey (35), both from California, were reportedly in Kochi as tourists when they flew a drone to record videos near the Coast Guard installation on Saturday morning.

According to police at Fort Kochi station, the duo was spotted by tourism police and taken into custody soon after the violation was noticed.

Authorities said Fort Kochi, which houses sensitive establishments of the Navy and Coast Guard, falls under a designated “red zone” where drone operations are strictly prohibited.

Despite the restrictions, officials noted that such violations occur frequently in the tourist-heavy area, often due to a lack of awareness among visitors about drone regulations.

A case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Aircraft Act, and the Drone Rules.

Police have seized the drone and a laptop from the tourists. The duo was later released after being served notices to appear before investigators as the probe continues. (Agencies)