Ladysmith residents raised growing concerns about unidentified drones spotted flying over residential properties recently. While the owner of one drone was tracked, investigations are still underway to determine who a second drone belongs to.

Ward councillor Abbas Warasally met with Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) officials on Wednesday (February 11) to find out if they had knowledge of the drones.

According to Warasally, TFR confirmed that one of the drones operating in the area belongs to UDS Security, and is used for drone surveillance to monitor TFR property in the area.

He said TFR assured him that their drone is tracked and is not monitoring people’s homes. Its purpose, he explained, is strictly for infrastructure surveillance.

“They indicated that the drone has a tracker and is being used to monitor fuel lines,” Warasally said.

He added that UDS Security has offered assistance when required to track down criminals in the area.

Second drone sparks outrage

However, residents have reported the presence of a second drone that appears to be flying directly into people’s yards. Warasally says this drone is not linked to the TFR operation discussed at the meeting.

“This is illegal – totally against the law,” he said. “No one has the right to invade people’s privacy by flying into their yards.”

Community members have expressed anger and frustration, with some warning that they will take matters into their own hands if the drone continues to enter their properties. Residents have told the councillor that they are furious and have threatened to shoot the drone if it comes into their yards.

Call for investigation

Warasally urged residents to remain calm while the matter is being addressed. He said efforts are underway to determine who is operating the second drone.

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