Spike in Illegal Weapons Seizures Along Punjab Border Raises Security Concerns
In a worrying development, the Border Security Force (BSF) has reported a sharp rise in illegal weapons being seized along the International Border in Punjab over the past week. In just five days, BSF personnel recovered 11 pistols and over 100 rounds of ammunition — a notable increase compared to previous months.
BSF sources revealed that in March, eight pistols and nearly 100 rounds were recovered, while only three pistols were seized in February. The most significant recovery came just yesterday, when six pistols of various makes and 97 live rounds were discovered in agricultural fields in Amritsar — one of the largest single-day hauls in recent months.
BSF officials expressed concern over the growing attempts to smuggle illegal weapons into Punjab, citing potential threats to law and order. This surge comes shortly after multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were uncovered last week near the border fence in the Gurdaspur sector, on a route frequently used by both BSF personnel and local farmers.
One BSF soldier sustained serious injuries during an IED defusal attempt, highlighting the dangers involved. While cross-border smuggling of drugs, firearms, and drones is a recurring issue, the recovery of IEDs is considered unusual and deeply alarming.
Many of the seized weapons are believed to have been dropped by drones sent from Pakistan. Typical of such cross-border consignments, some were wrapped in yellow polythene. So far in April, the BSF has intercepted and neutralized around 10 drones and confiscated over 5 kilograms of narcotics. Five individuals suspected of involvement in smuggling operations have also been arrested, with cash, motorcycles, and mobile phones recovered from them.
Drones have increasingly become the preferred method for smuggling narcotics, arms, and ammunition into India from Pakistan. All captured drones undergo forensic examination to trace their origin, flight route, and target destination. The BSF’s drone analysis workshop, established in Amritsar in August 2024, has already processed data from over 200 rogue drones, offering vital intelligence for counter-smuggling strategies.
To strengthen its efforts, the BSF has developed a dedicated intelligence unit to track drone and smuggler activity in border areas. The force also holds regular coordination meetings with other law enforcement agencies to streamline intelligence sharing and enhance operational effectiveness.
The BSF is tasked with peacetime security along India’s border with Pakistan, covering Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir. Punjab alone shares 553 km of this international boundary. Though most of the border is fenced, the riverine stretches along the Sutlej remain challenging to patrol, leaving them vulnerable to infiltration and smuggling attempts.
Authorities continue to remain on high alert as they tackle this evolving security threat.
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