The Joint search operation for potential cross-border tunnels along the International Border in Samba district, led by the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Jammu and Kashmir Police, occurred on Saturday. This took place amidst increased security in the Union territory preceding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit next week, according to officials.
Over the past decades, security forces in Samba, Kathua, and Jammu districts have unearthed approximately twelve cross-border tunnels employed for smuggling terrorists, weapons, and narcotics from across the Pakistan border. A recent announcement by the police offers a cash reward of Rs 5 lakh to individuals aiding in the discovery of such tunnels used by “anti-national elements.”
The impending visit of Modi to Jammu on February 20 adds significance to the security measures, with the Prime Minister inaugurating and laying the foundation for 209 projects valued at Rs 3,161 crore. Additionally, he will address a public gathering at the Maulana Azad Stadium in Jammu.
In light of Modi’s visit, security arrangements have been heightened, leading to a two-hour-long joint anti-tunnelling operation in the Ramgarh sector of Samba district, commencing around 9:45 am. Although the search teams found nothing suspicious on the ground, BSF troops and police personnel have been placed on maximum alert. This follows a recent ceasefire violation by Pakistan Rangers, prompting authorities to maintain a vigilant stance against any suspicious activities along the International Border.
Security measures extend beyond the IB, with reinforcements along the Line of Control (LoC) and the hinterland to prevent potential terrorist attacks. The officials report an increase in patrolling, area domination, and checks in sensitive regions to uphold peace.
The heightened security context includes a recent incident where Pakistan Rangers breached the ceasefire, firing on a BSF post at Makwal along the IB in R S Pura sector on Wednesday evening. In response, Indian border guards retaliated, with cross-border firing lasting 25 minutes. Subsequently, the BSF lodged a strong protest against the unprovoked firing.
In separate incidents over the past six days, army troops guarding the LoC engaged with Pakistani drones in three instances across different sectors of Poonch district.
