In a joint statement today, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Aviation Administration and the Department of Defense said that in recent weeks the FBI has received over 5,000 reports of drones in several US states, but only 100 of them merited further investigation.
After examining the footage, the agencies believe it was a combination of civilian drones, law enforcement drones, manned aircraft, helicopters, or even stars in the sky that people thought were drones. The agencies said they saw nothing unusual that could pose a threat to national security.
They say that several cases of drones over military facilities in New Jersey have been identified, but add that this is nothing new and that they are cooperating with local, federal and state authorities.
However, the questions of the American public, as well as some politicians, on the issue of drones continue.
Why have a large number of drones suddenly appeared in the skies of New Jersey? Who sent them? And why?
These questions are being asked all over America.
US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said on Sunday that there is no indication of foreign involvement.
He said authorities are dealing with the issue, but stressed that resources are limited.
"I want to assure the American public that we are addressing this issue. We are working in close coordination with state and local authorities, and it is critical, as we have said for several years, that we obtain additional authority from Congress on the issue of drones. Currently, our authority is limited and is about to expire. We need to extend it," he said.
New Jersey residents say their usually quiet airspace has been on fire in recent weeks, as officials search for answers.
"They're not the size of a commercial jet, but they're the size of a car. Because when they land, they look much bigger. I can tell they're not civilian drones. There are so many around New Jersey, all over the state. Everyone has seen them in the last three or four weeks. Imagine how much money this must cost," says Christopher Stadulis, a New Jersey resident.
Key leaders are demanding action.
"Why do we have more questions than answers? We are here today for three reasons. First, to encourage the widespread use of a new technology to get answers about these drones. Also to let you know that we will help pass the Drone Act, allowing local police departments and state police to assist federal agents in detecting these drones, which has been requested by many people," he said.
President-elect Donald Trump floated his theory on Monday. He did not indicate whether he had received any classified information on the matter.
"The government knows what's going on. They know where they came from and where they're going. And for some reason they don't want to comment. I think it would be better if they told us what they are. The military and the president know. And for some reason, they want to keep people on edge. I don't think it's the enemy, because if it was, they would be destroying the drones. Something strange is going on," Mr. Trump said.
Whatever it is, everyone agrees on one point: they want answers./ VOA