In a significant uptick in cross-border smuggling activities, the Border Security Force (BSF) has intercepted a record 178 drones over the past ten months near Punjab’s International Border, compared to 107 drones seized in 2023. Originating from Pakistan, these drones are primarily deployed to smuggle narcotics, arms, and ammunition, posing a persistent challenge to border security.
Over the past week alone, BSF units intercepted 10 drones, apprehended nine suspected traffickers, and seized 7.82 kg of heroin. Weekly recoveries average four to five drones, underscoring the scale and frequency of smuggling attempts. “This substantial haul highlights not only the extent of narcotics attempts but also the strategic planning employed by the traffickers,” a BSF statement noted.
Up until October 29, BSF forces have taken 74 suspects into custody, suspected of involvement in cross-border smuggling. Cumulative seizures this year include 217 kg of heroin, 15 kg of opium, 33 pistols, 45 magazines, and 405 rounds of ammunition. BSF officials, however, caution that undetected drone infiltrations remain a concern.
To combat this issue, the BSF has implemented enhanced drills and procedures focused on audio and visual detection. While limited anti-drone systems have been deployed, Punjab’s International Border remains particularly vulnerable to smuggling due to dense habitations and link roads, with the Sriganganagar sector in Rajasthan following closely behind. Other regions, such as Jammu and Kashmir, face similar challenges with arms smuggling, while southern Rajasthan and Gujarat experience fewer incidents due to their sparse border populations.
A significant majority of the drones seized are DJI Mavic series models, manufactured in China, and reportedly used for both civilian and military purposes worldwide. These small quadcopters, capable of covering distances up to 30 km and operating at altitudes of 6,000 meters, have replaced the larger hexacopters seen in earlier smuggling attempts. Smaller drones, favored for their cost-efficiency and low visual and audio footprint, typically carry half-kilogram loads attached by adhesive tape or cords.
BSF’s Punjab facility conducts forensic examinations on recovered drones to identify origin, flight path, and destination. Additionally, the BSF has requested the deployment of an extra battalion to manage the 553 km border stretch in Punjab, with special focus on riverine areas along the Sutlej and Ravi rivers, which present unique guarding challenges.