Suspected Pakistani Drones Spotted Along LoC and IB in J&K

Cross-Border Drone Activity Raises Security Concerns as Indian Forces Conduct Search Operations Along LoC

Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have spotted multiple suspected Pakistani drones hovering over the forward areas along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB).

These incidents on Sunday night were marked by a high alert and search operations. Officials said the sightings were reported in Samba, Rajouri, and Poonch districts, raising concerns about aerial intrusions and the possible use of drones for cross-border smuggling.

Drone Sightings Trigger Alert Along LoC, IB

Senior defense sources revealed that drone-like objects were first noticed crossing into Indian airspace from the Pakistani side on the evening of January 11. The drones remained in Indian territory for a short period before they retreated across the border.  

In the Nowshera sector of Rajouri district, Indian Army troops covering the forward posts noticed a drone hovering over Gania-Kalsian village at about 6:35 pm. Security forces fired medium and light machine guns as a response to frighten away the aerial intruder just before it left for Pakistan.

Drone Sightings Prompt Searches, Renew Smuggling Concerns

Another drone was spotted over Chak Babral village in the Ramgarh sector of Samba district, which had a blinking light, and left the area after a few minutes. One more was seen at 6:25 pm going from Tain to Topa in the Mankote sector of Poonch district. 

Ground search operations have already started by a joint team of the Army, police, and other security agencies. They are investigating the sightings for possible drop zones or any suspicious activity on the ground. The drone activity happened just a few days after security forces in Samba found an arms consignment near Paloora village, close to the IB.

Officials reported a Pakistan-origin drone dropped a consignment containing two pistols, three magazines, sixteen rounds, and a grenade. The incident once again highlights the ongoing concerns about cross-border drone smuggling.

Are Drones Being Used for Smuggling?

The Indian government has not revealed the specific source or purpose of the aerials comprehensively. However, intrusions have been associated with spying activities and smuggling of drugs or arms across the tightly controlled border over the years. 

Officials have declared that the usual joint operations have been initiated and the troops are on the lookout to stop any more incursions.