Samba, Jan 10; Security forces recovered an arms consignment dropped by a Pakistan-based drone in the Regal forward area near the International Border in Samba district, officials said.
According to official sources, the recovery was made during routine surveillance and area domination in the forward belt close to the International Border. Alert troops detected suspicious material in the Regal area and subsequently conducted a thorough search operation, leading to the seizure of the consignment.
The recovered cache includes two pistols, three magazines, 16 rounds of ammunition and one grenade. Security agencies believe the consignment was intended to be used for disruptive activities in the border region.
Officials said the timely detection and recovery of the arms prevented a potential security threat in the area. The use of drones for cross-border dropping of weapons and contraband has emerged as a recurring challenge for security forces along the International Border and Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.
A case has been registered and further investigation is underway to trace the intended recipients and establish the exact route and launch point of the drone. Security has been further strengthened in the border belt, and additional surveillance measures have been put in place to counter such attempts.
Senior officials said coordinated efforts involving ground patrols and technical monitoring remain crucial in thwarting drone-based infiltration and smuggling activities in the region. [KNT]
