Panic in Ghaziabad as ‘Drone-like Objects’ Spotted in Night Sky; Villagers Keep Night Watch, Police on Alert
Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh – Residents of Ghaziabad and several surrounding districts in Western Uttar Pradesh are gripped by fear due to sightings of drone-like flying objects in the night sky over the past few days. The mysterious aerial activity has triggered a wave of concern, with villagers staying awake through the night and keeping vigil with sticks and lathis to safeguard their homes.
Reports suggest that locals believe these drones might be used for surveillance of homes, potentially in preparation for theft or other criminal activity. In the last four days alone, police have received 18 complaints across seven police station areas, with the most reports emerging from the Bhojpur region. However, despite multiple police visits to reported locations, no concrete evidence has been found so far.
Drone sightings have also been reported in Masuri and Loni’s Tronica City area, with some residents capturing videos and sharing them on social media platforms. These videos have gone viral, further fueling public anxiety.
Police Response and Investigation
Rural DCP Surendra Nath Tiwari confirmed that the police are receiving complaints of drones flying and allegedly surveying homes during the night. He stated that all local police stations have been instructed to intensify night patrolling and keep a strict watch on drone-like objects. However, he also urged the public not to fall prey to rumors or panic unnecessarily.
“We’re investigating the viral videos and taking all complaints seriously,” said DCP Tiwari. “People are advised not to take the law into their hands. If any suspicious activity is observed, they should immediately inform the police.”
Villagers on Edge
In areas like Dhabarsi, Rafiqabad, and Mayur Vihar, locals have been gathering on rooftops and open spaces, armed with sticks to guard against the perceived drone threat. In some videos, small lights can be seen in the sky, which residents are identifying as drones—though authorities have yet to confirm what exactly these flying objects are.
Adding to the confusion, some speculate that the sightings may be optical illusions or even hoaxes, though police are not ruling out any possibilities at this stage.
Incident in Hapur Raises Concerns
In a related incident from Hapur, villagers—alarmed by the drone rumors—mistook a mentally challenged man for a thief allegedly connected to the drone sightings and assaulted him. The man was unable to identify himself, and his condition remains unclear. Authorities are investigating the case.
Key Complaint Statistics (July 24–27):
- Bhojpur – 7 complaints
- Muradnagar – 5 complaints
- Modinagar – 2 complaints
- Masuri – 1 complaint
- Niwari – 1 complaint
- Kotwali – 1 complaint
- Tronica City (Loni) – 1 complaint
Police have assured that they are actively monitoring the situation, and investigations are underway to determine the origin and nature of these aerial objects. They continue to request the public to stay alert but avoid panic and refrain from taking drastic steps based on unverified information.
