Pakistan attempted to send explosive materials across the border even on New Year's Day. Several suspicious items, including explosives, were dropped via a drone in the Poonch area of Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian Army immediately launched a search operation after discovering the materials.
According to news reports, the drone first entered Indian airspace over the Khadi Karmada area of Poonch. It dropped several packets over Indian territory and remained in the area for about five minutes before returning across the Line of Control. The packets reportedly contained improvised explosive devices (IEDs), ammunition, and narcotics. Authorities believe these were intended to support members of militant organisations.
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After recovering the packets, joint forces of the Kashmir Police and the army launched an intensive search operation in Khadi Karmada and the surrounding areas. Surveillance has been increased along the border and in forested regions, and overall security arrangements have been strengthened across Jammu and Kashmir due to the New Year celebrations. Security forces have described the cross-border drone incursion as a serious threat under the circumstances.
Militant presence and search operations
According to PTI reports, members of two Jaish-e-Mohammed groups are believed to be present in the border areas and mountainous interiors of Poonch and Kishtwar districts, with each group consisting of two to three members. This region has witnessed conflicts in the past as well. Based on intelligence inputs, the army is conducting targeted search operations in these locations.
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Enhanced surveillance and security measures
In addition to ground searches, aerial surveillance and sniffer dogs are being deployed. Security forces are maintaining heightened vigilance across Jammu and Kashmir to prevent any further cross-border incursions or attempts to smuggle explosives and contraband.
