Rodri faces neighbourly complaint over drone use
Manchester City’s Rodri is under scrutiny following a complaint made to Greater Manchester Police by residents near his penthouse flat in Salford, reports BritPanorama.
The 29-year-old Spanish midfielder, who won the prestigious 2024 Ballon d’Or, is accused of operating a drone in close proximity to neighbouring apartments within the city centre high-rise complex.
Residents have reported that the unmanned aircraft has been hovering outside their windows, raising concerns over potential privacy violations.
Police are currently investigating the matter, with tenants describing unsettling encounters with the drone. One resident said, “I live with my partner on a high floor and the last thing you expect to see when you’re watching telly is a drone a metre outside the window.” This individual expressed that they felt their previously peaceful living situation had been compromised by Rodri’s drone.
Another tenant, an HGV driver on the 34th floor, reported seeing a green flashing light outside while watching television. He stated that the drone would return to the footballer’s penthouse patio after flying by their flat. His girlfriend contacted the 101 non-emergency line to lodge a formal complaint, indicating that police would respond.
Several tenants of the building have raised their concerns through the concierge, asking staff to communicate with the management regarding the issue. There are also discussions in a residents’ WhatsApp group about whether the drone activity breaches voyeurism and harassment laws, as well as drone flight regulations.
According to Civil Aviation Authority regulations, drone operators are required to complete an online theory test and register with the authority before flying. Moreover, they must respect the privacy of others and avoid causing nuisances.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed the receipt of the complaint, stating, “We have received a complaint and officers are making enquiries.” Rodri, who joined Manchester City from Atletico Madrid in 2019 for £63 million, remains unavailable for public comment as the situation unfolds.
In an unexpected turn of events, the intersection of celebrity and everyday life has once again sparked curiosity, reminding us how the unique challenges of living in a bustling city can bring personal and public spheres into sharp focus.
