Massive Weapon Cache Dropped by Drones Near Rajasthan Border
Security forces recover hundreds of cartridges, pistols, and IED components dropped by drones near the Indo-Pakistan border in Rajasthan.
In a development described as "highly alarming," security forces in Rajasthan have intercepted a massive consignment of weapons, explosives, and ammunition dropped into Indian territory via drones. The operation, conducted near the Indo-Pakistan border in the Sriganganagar district, marks a significant escalation in cross-border smuggling tactics.
Unprecedented Recovery of Arms and Explosives
A joint operation by the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) and the Border Security Force (BSF) led to the seizure of a vast array of lethal materials. According to ANTF Inspector General Vikas Kumar, the recovery occurred across three separate drone sorties. The cache includes:
- Ammunition: Between 600 and 700 cartridges.
- Firearms: Multiple pistols.
- Explosives: A massive quantity of explosives, including components specifically used for manufacturing Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
- Equipment: Detonators and various power equipment.
Inspector General Kumar noted that the scale of this recovery is unprecedented for the region, stating that such a vast quantity of weapons and ammunition being dropped in Rajasthan is a first for the state.
Intelligence-Led Operation Targets Punjab Suspects
The recovery was not a matter of chance but the result of a month-long intelligence-gathering mission. Security agencies had been tracking specific movements in the Rajasthan border area based on information regarding two suspects originating from Punjab.
The task force maintained discreet surveillance on the suspects to avoid detection. "Our teams monitored them with great professionalism, tracking their movements without letting them realise that the ANTF team was shadowing them," Kumar explained. The operation reached its climax after intelligence confirmed the arrival of the consignment just one day before the seizure.
Two Suspects Arrested
Following the recovery, two individuals were taken into custody. While the arrests have been confirmed, authorities have chosen to withhold the identities of the suspects to ensure the integrity of the ongoing investigation. As the investigation continues, security forces are working to determine the full scope of the smuggling network and the intended destination of the weapons.