The Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES) has issued an official warning prohibiting citizens from shooting down unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) using improvised means. This statement was made against the backdrop of increasing incidents involving drone attacks and a high-profile case in the Moscow region, where a former police officer destroyed a drone using a hunting rifle. This was reported by the publication Mash, citing an incident that occurred during yet another UAV attack.

The agency emphasized that any attempts by citizens to destroy drones pose a serious threat to their own safety and may also entail legal consequences. The official statement from the Ministry of Emergency Situations emphasizes that if a drone is detected, it is strictly forbidden not only to shoot it down, but also to approach the device, touch it, or try to interact with it. In addition, citizens are advised to refrain from using mobile phones, radio equipment, and any devices with a GPS function near the drone, as this may provoke an unpredictable reaction from the device, including the detonation of explosives, if any.

The Ministry of Emergency Situations has developed a clear algorithm of actions for citizens who find themselves in the area of ​​action of drones. If a drone is detected, it is necessary to immediately move to a safe distance - at least 100 meters, find shelter and report the situation to emergency services by dialing 112. The department emphasized that only professional services equipped with special equipment have the right and the ability to safely neutralize such devices.

The ban on independent actions is related to the growing threat of drone attacks, including on infrastructure facilities and residential areas. Experts note that drones used in such attacks are often equipped with explosive devices, which makes them extremely dangerous for civilians. Thus, in October 2024, in the Belgorod region, when a downed drone fell, an explosion occurred, as a result of which two people were injured, RIA Novosti reported.