US aviation authorities have banned the use of drones in 22 cities in New Jersey until January 17th 2025, allowing the government to use “deadly force” against unmanned aircraft if they pose an “imminent security threat”.

BBC News says the Federal Aviation Administration also warned that those operating in restricted zones risk being intercepted and detained by law enforcement.

The move comes after weeks of mysterious drones sightings across New Jersey and other states, leading to concern from residents and prompting a number of conspiracy theories online about foreign involvement.

The order states that no unmanned aircraft can operate below 400 feet, the maximum altitude for recreational drone operations under FAA rules.

Several of the restricted zones are around infrastructure, like power substations, while others cover areas like port and airspace around military installations, or airports.

The FAA says a handful of agencies, such as law enforcement and disaster response missions, are not included in the restrictions.

Some commercial drone operations will also be permitted under the restrictions, but operators will need a valid statement of work and an approved special governmental interest airspace waiver.