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India detains U.S. national for flying drone over iconic Taj Mahal

Xinhua, November 12, 2016 Adjust font size:

Indian authorities have taken into custody a U.S. national for allegedly flying a drone near iconic Taj Mahal in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh's town of Agra, just 250 kms from the national capital.

A senior police official said Saturday that the American tourist, identified as R. Nicholas, was detained for the incident Friday for flying a small white-colored drone at least twice near the historical monument, which is a high-security zone.

"After security forces spotted the drone, a massive search operation was launched and the American tourist was found operating the flying object from the terrace of a local hotel. He was immediately taken into custody," he said, on condition of anonymity.

The official added that the U.S. embassy in the Indian capital has been informed about the detention.

Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of ancient world and is visited by millions of tourists every year. Drones are banned near the monument like in sensitive places such as airports. Endit