Jammu: Security forces recovered a suspected Pakistani drone from Jammu and Kashmir’s Samba district, marking the second such recovery in the border district within a week, officials said on Sunday.
The drone was recovered by troops of the Territorial Army from the Sangar fields in the Purmandal area late Saturday night, officials said.
The recovery has prompted intensified surveillance and investigations by security agencies amid continued efforts to prevent cross-border smuggling, infiltration attempts and the use of unmanned aerial vehicles for dropping weapons or narcotics along the International Border.
Officials said the seized drone has been sent for forensic examination to ascertain its origin, technical specifications and whether it was used for any cross-border activity.
The latest recovery comes days after another drone was seized from an open field near Devak village in Samba district on July 14.
Security agencies have been maintaining heightened alert along the border areas of Samba, where drones have increasingly emerged as a challenge due to their suspected use by
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Police carried out a comprehensive security exercise and area domination patrol in the Ghagwal border belt of Samba district on Sunday to strengthen public safety and maintain operational readiness.
The exercise was conducted under the supervision of an Additional Superintendent of Police and covered a three-kilometre stretch from Nonath to Tapyal, officials said.
The operation began with coordinated patrolling, during which Road Opening Party (ROP) personnel were briefed to ensure effective execution of their duties.
As part of the exercise, a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO)-cum-room intervention drill was conducted jointly by the Special Operations Group (SOG), Samba, and the CRPF’s Quick Reaction Team (QRT).
Officials said the tactical exercise was aimed at improving coordination between security forces, enhancing response capabilities and preparing personnel to deal with possible security threats.
Following the drill, police conducted surprise checking at a strategic location, intercepting and thoroughly checking several vehicles as part of security protocols.
“Such area domination patrols, tactical exercises, CASOs and surprise checking will continue to be conducted regularly to maintain a robust security environment, deter anti-national and criminal elements and ensure the safety and security of the people of the district,” police said.
Security agencies said surveillance and preventive measures would continue across border areas of Samba in view of the evolving security challenges.
