Searches launched after drone sightings in Samba, Kathua

Jammu Tawi: Security forces on Saturday launched extensive search operations in Jammu and Kashmir’s Samba and Kathua districts after suspected Pakistani drones were detected near the International Border (IB), officials said.

According to officials, an aerial object suspected to be a Pakistani drone was spotted by Army troops over the forward village of Tarore in Samba’s Vijaypur area late Friday night, prompting the activation of counter-drone measures.

The suspected drone is believed to have retreated across the International Border into Pakistan before it could be intercepted, officials said.

In a separate incident, another suspected drone was briefly seen hovering over Chak Nalua village in the Hiranagar sector of Kathua district on Friday evening.

Following the sightings, security forces launched comprehensive search operations at both locations to trace any payload or other evidence linked to the suspected drone activity.

The searches were continuing when reports last came in. Meanwhile, surveillance and security measures along the International Border have been further intensified in view of repeated incidents of suspected cross-border drone activity, officials added.