Man Arrested in Belo Horizonte for Operating Drone Signal Jammer That Affected Aircraft GPS
This incident highlights the dangers posed by unauthorized signal interference in sensitive areas like airspace navigation zones. As drone technology becomes more accessible, authorities face growing challenges in regulating its use and addressing the risks posed by malicious actors
A man was arrested this Friday in Belo Horizonte after authorities confirmed the installation of a drone signal jammer in his home, which interfered with aircraft GPS systems.
The device was located in Fazendinha, an area situated atop the hill that forms the Serra Favela Cluster, in the southern zone of the city, as reported by Aeroin.
Since last week, Military Police and Anatel had received reports of GPS signal interference affecting airplanes and helicopters in Greater Belo Horizonte. The disruptions were particularly problematic during approach procedures to Pampulha Airport.
Some pilots operating in the region reported signal loss near Lagoa Várzea das Flores, in the neighboring city of Contagem, and over the Companhia Siderúrgica Mannesmann (Vallourec) in Barreiro. These locations are key navigation points within the airspace of Minas Gerais.
While these locations are far from the Serra Cluster, the height of the mountain enabled widespread signal interference, prompting 21 reports of GPS issues in four days. This led to a joint operation between ANATEL and the Military Police of Minas Gerais to locate the source.
Using telecommunications tracking equipment, authorities discovered the signal jammer in a house atop the cluster. The device was likely installed by drug trafficking groups to hinder the use of drones by the Military Police and disrupt the operations of Airbus H125 Esquilo helicopters, which regularly patrol the favela.
The resident of the home claimed the device did not belong to him and admitted to receiving 1,500 reais per month to host the equipment.
The man, whose name was not disclosed, was charged under Article 261 of the Brazilian Penal Code, which punishes acts that endanger maritime, river, or aerial navigation with 2 to 5 years in prison. He was handed over to the Federal Police, as the crime falls under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Union.
Comentarios
Para comentar, debés estar registrado
Por favor, iniciá sesión