Sharp surge in smuggling of sophisticated weapons from Pak, says BSF IG Fulzale

The Border Security Force (BSF) has witnessed a sharp surge in the smuggling of sophisticated weapons, explosives and narcotics through drones along the International Border in Punjab, particularly after the standoff between India and Pakistan during ‘Operation Sindoor’ in the aftermath of Pehalgam terrorist attack earlier this year.

According to data shared by BSF Punjab Frontier Inspector General Atul Fulzale here during an interaction, 200 advanced weapons of various types, including AK-47 rifles, have been seized in 2025. The recoveries also include 10.24 kg of RDX and 12 hand grenades, all routed through Pakistan-based state and non-state actors attempting to destabilise the region.

Reiterating the force’s preparedness, Fulzale said the BSF was “fully capable and ready to counter any misadventure by the neighbouring nation".

Drone activity remains a major challenge

Since January 1, the BSF has intercepted and recovered 272 drones carrying consignments of drugs, weapons and ammunition. The Punjab Police, meanwhile, seized 367.78 kg of heroin from along the 533-km border in Punjab.

Officials say 2025 has seen new smuggling patterns emerge, with a noticeable rise not only in weapons trafficking but also in synthetic drugs.

Pakistan-based networks have increasingly attempted to push methamphetamine (ICE) into India. “We have confiscated over 19 kg of ICE till November 30,” the IG revealed, adding that 14.5 kg of opium was also recovered this year.

The BSF’s intensified crackdown has led to substantial arrests. As many as 251 Indian suspects, including 133 smugglers, were apprehended in various operations. Additionally, 18 Pakistani nationals were caught while attempting to infiltrate and three Pakistani intruders were neutralised along the International Border.

With evolving smuggling tactics and rising cross-border threats, officials underscore that vigilance and technological upgrades remain central to safeguarding Punjab’s frontier.

Meanwhile, as part of its diamond jubilee celebrations, the BSF launched extensive institutional outreach programmes .

Over 100 educational institutions were covered, where units organised weapon exhibitions, expert lectures, motivational interactions, and cultural events, collectively benefiting more than 20,000 students. The initiatives focused on fostering national unity, spreading awareness against drugs and highlighting career opportunities in the armed forces.

The IG also visited leading institutions, including Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Jalandhar, and Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) in Amritsar, where he interacted with students and encouraged them to contribute to national integration and public service.