New Delhi / Jammu:
Just days after a strong warning by the Indian Army Chief, Pakistani drones were once again detected along the International Border and the Line of Control (LoC), prompting Indian troops to open fire in the Samba and Poonch sectors of Jammu and Kashmir, according to defence sources.
Indian Army officials said the drones were sighted during late-night surveillance operations, raising fresh security concerns amid heightened border tensions.
“Suspicious aerial activity believed to be Pakistani drones was detected in the Samba and Poonch areas. Troops responded immediately by opening fire as a precautionary measure,” an Indian Army source said.
Increased Vigilance After Army Chief’s Warning
The incident comes shortly after the Chief of the Army Staff warned of heightened infiltration attempts and the increasing use of drones by Pakistan-based elements to smuggle weapons, explosives, and narcotics into Indian territory.
Security forces along the border have been placed on maximum alert, with night surveillance, counter-drone systems, and aerial monitoring intensified across vulnerable sectors.
“There is clear evidence that drones are being used repeatedly to test our defenses. We are fully prepared to neutralize any threat,” a senior defence official stated.
No Casualties, Searches Underway
According to preliminary reports, no casualties or damage were reported during the firing. However, extensive search operations were launched in the surrounding areas to rule out the possibility of payload drops.
Local police and paramilitary units have been placed on standby, while intelligence agencies are analysing drone movement patterns to determine launch locations and intent.
Background of Drone Threats
Over the past few years, Pakistan-origin drones have been repeatedly intercepted along the Jammu border, often carrying arms, ammunition, and narcotics. Indian security agencies have described the drone threat as a key component of cross-border hybrid warfare.
Officials said such incidents underline the continuing challenges to border security despite ceasefire agreements.
Strategic Significance
Defence analysts say the latest incident reflects persistent attempts to destabilize border areas, even as India maintains a firm stance against cross-border terrorism.
“The Army’s response shows zero tolerance. Any aerial intrusion will be dealt with decisively,” a security analyst noted.
