Pakistani Drone Spotted Near Jammu Border Again, BSF Opens Fire in Samba

Security forces opened fire after a suspected Pakistani drone was spotted along the international border in Jammu and Kashmir’s Samba district on Friday, triggering fresh security concerns along India’s western frontier. The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was detected by Border Security Force personnel, who immediately responded as per standard operating procedures.

Officials said the drone was observed flying near the International Border for several minutes before BSF troops fired at the object to neutralise any potential threat. It remains unclear whether the drone was successfully brought down or retreated back across the border. Search operations were initiated in the area to determine its origin, purpose and possible payload.

The latest incident adds to a growing list of suspected drone sightings in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly along sensitive border districts. Just days earlier, a similar UAV was detected in Kathua district, prompting security agencies to launch an extensive combing operation ahead of Republic Day celebrations. That drone was reportedly visible to forces for around five minutes before disappearing, raising concerns about cross-border surveillance attempts.

Earlier this month, another suspected Pakistani drone was spotted along the International Border in Samba on January 15, leading authorities to place the region on high alert. Security agencies have noted a recurring pattern of drone activity along forward areas, often coinciding with heightened vigilance periods.

India’s top military leadership has already conveyed strong concerns to Pakistan over the repeated UAV sightings. Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff, recently stated that Pakistan has been “put on notice” regarding such activities.

Speaking at his annual press conference earlier this month, the Army chief said New Delhi had made it clear to Islamabad that drone intrusions over Indian territory were unacceptable. He confirmed that Director General of Military Operations (DGMO)-level talks had taken place between the two sides, during which India raised the issue of drone movements across the border.

Dwivedi also noted that some of the UAVs spotted appeared to be small, possibly defensive drones, likely used to monitor Indian troop movement or infrastructure near the border. He reiterated that the Indian Army remains fully alert and prepared to counter any misadventure.

Following his remarks, multiple suspected Pakistani drones were reportedly sighted over the Rajouri sector and were fired upon by Army troops in line with established protocols.

Security officials believe drones are increasingly being used for reconnaissance and potential smuggling activities, posing a persistent challenge for border management. While no casualties or recoveries have been reported in the latest Samba incident, authorities have intensified surveillance and patrolling in the region.

The continued sightings underscore the evolving nature of cross-border threats and the growing reliance on unmanned technology for covert operations. Indian security forces remain on heightened alert to prevent any breach of national security along the sensitive India-Pakistan border.