Twice-Deported Illegal Flies Drone in FIFA Restricted Airspace
A Mexican national with a lengthy criminal record and multiple deportations was arrested for flying a drone in restricted airspace near a FIFA event in Atlanta.
Lorenzo Rojas-Martinez was apprehended on June 12 while flying an unmanned aircraft near Centennial Olympic Park during the 2026 FIFA Fan Festival, according to New York Post. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia confirmed the arrest.
FBI agents on the scene requested identification from Rojas-Martinez and immediately took him into custody after discovering he was in the United States illegally. He was transferred to Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody the following day.
On June 15, federal prosecutors charged him with operating a drone in a temporary flight restricted zone and illegal re-entry into the country.
Multiple Deportations Failed to Deter Illegal Re-Entry
Rojas-Martinez told investigators he first entered the U.S. illegally in 1999 and was deported in 2013. Undeterred, he illegally re-entered the country at an unknown date and location before being deported a second time in 2019. He then crossed the border illegally for a third time, though the exact date and location remain unclear.
His criminal history is extensive, including prior convictions for drug trafficking, stolen property, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, two counts of fraud, and an arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Trump Administration Vows Strong Response
Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis condemned the incident in strong terms. This criminal illegal alien dangerously flew a drone in restricted airspace near a FIFA event, she stated, adding that the Trump Administration will not allow illegal aliens to threaten the safety and security of the American people.
Strict No-Drone Zone Enforced Around World Cup Events
FIFA has designated the 2026 World Cup a “No Drone Zone” to protect players and participants. The Federal Aviation Administration, FBI, and local law enforcement agencies have been actively monitoring airspace around matches and related events.
Operating a drone within a restricted area without authorization can result in civil penalties up to 75,000 dollars per violation and criminal fines as high as 100,000 dollars. The FBI is authorized to deploy specialized mitigation tools to intercept and seize unauthorized drones, and violators face potential federal criminal charges and arrest.
The case underscores ongoing security challenges posed by repeat illegal border crossers with criminal backgrounds gaining access to sensitive locations and events within the United States.
With information from New York Post
