Possible Drone Intrusion Raises Security Concerns at Genkai Nuclear Plant

Over the weekend, officials are investigating a possible drone intrusion at the Genkai Nuclear Power Station in Saga Prefecture. This incident has sparked concerns regarding the security of vital infrastructure.

The event began around 9 p.m. on July 26. Security personnel reported observing three lights hovering above the plant's main gate. Local police officers stationed at the facility also confirmed seeing the lights. These lights are believed to have remained in the area for approximately two hours, with the last sighting recorded at 10:53 p.m. on the south side of the plant.

Despite an extensive search, no drones or other aerial devices were located. Security cameras at the site did not capture the lights. Kyushu Electric reported that the plant's equipment and operations showed no irregularities following the incident.

Unmanned aerial vehicles are strictly prohibited from entering the airspace surrounding nuclear plants for security purposes. Officials are unsure whether the lights originated from three separate flying objects or a single device equipped with multiple lights.

The authorities' response to the incident has highlighted the unusual nature of the event and the resulting confusion. The Nuclear Regulation Authority initially reported the event as a potential threat on its emergency information website. However, this was later corrected to clarify that only "three lights, possibly drones," had been observed.