Daijiworld Media Network - Samba

Samba, Jan 31: A suspected Pakistani drone was spotted along the international border in Jammu and Kashmir’s Samba district, prompting Border Security Force (BSF) personnel to open fire at the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), officials said on Friday.

This is the latest in a series of incidents involving alleged or confirmed Pakistani drones in Jammu and Kashmir. Just a day before Republic Day, security forces detected a drone in Kathua district, prompting an immediate search operation. The UAV was reportedly visible for about five minutes before forces combed surrounding areas to trace its origin and movement.

Earlier, on January 15, another suspected Pakistani drone incursion was reported along the IB in Samba, triggering a high alert and countermeasures in the area.

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi had earlier stated that Pakistan has been “on notice” regarding UAV sightings in forward areas. Speaking at his annual press conference, he said New Delhi informed Islamabad that such activity is “not acceptable,” and DGMO-level talks had been held to raise concerns over recent drone movements.

“We have told Pakistan to rein in its drones,” the Army Chief said, while asserting that the Army remains fully alert and prepared to respond to any misadventures. He also noted that the drones spotted so far appeared to be small, defensive UAVs, possibly deployed to monitor Indian activity.

Hours after the statements, multiple suspected Pakistani drones were again spotted over the Rajouri sector and fired upon by Indian troops in line with standard operating procedures.