Pakistani Drone Crosses Into Indian Airspace In Poonch, Army Opens Fire Along LoC

Indian Army troops opened fire after a Pakistani drone allegedly crossed into Indian airspace in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, officials said on Tuesday.

The drone was spotted late on Monday night over forward Indian positions in the Balakote area of the Mendhar sector near the Line of Control (LoC). The intrusion immediately triggered a security response from troops stationed in the area.

According to officials, soldiers closely monitored the drone's movement before opening fire.

Army Responds Swiftly

Sources said Army personnel fired around nine rounds at the unmanned aerial vehicle after detecting it over the sensitive border region.

However, the drone was reportedly flying at a considerable altitude, making it difficult to neutralise.

STORY | Army opens fire at Pakistani drone along LoC in J-Ks Poonch

Army troops opened fire at a Pakistani drone after it intruded into Indian territory in Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch district, but it returned to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) after briefly hovering over some… pic.twitter.com/t5FqOV8O2m

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 9, 2026

After hovering over Indian positions for a brief period, the drone is believed to have returned to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Officials said the incident is being treated seriously given the strategic importance of the region and the increasing use of drones along the border.

Massive Search Operation Conducted

Following the drone intrusion, security agencies launched a large-scale search operation on Tuesday morning.

The operation aimed to determine whether the drone had dropped any payload, including weapons, explosives, narcotics, or surveillance equipment.

Indian Army troops opened fire on a Pakistani drone after it crossed the Line of Control in Poonch, Jammu & Kashmir. The drone reportedly hovered over forward Indian positions before retreating back into Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).#IndianArmy #PakistanDrone #LOC #Poonch pic.twitter.com/jgRd9C1K9E

— DefenceMedia (@Defencemedia0) June 9, 2026

Security personnel thoroughly searched nearby areas for several hours. However, officials later confirmed that no suspicious objects or airdropped material were recovered during the operation.

Despite the negative findings, security agencies continue to remain alert and are closely monitoring the region.

Recent Drone Recovery In Kathua

The latest incident comes only weeks after another drone-related recovery in Jammu and Kashmir. On May 26, security agencies recovered a drone from the Hatli area near Govindsar Railway Station Road in Kathua district.

Confirming the recovery, Additional Superintendent of Police Sunil Kesar said authorities had received information about a suspected drone under the jurisdiction of Hatli Police Station.

A police team immediately reached the spot and seized the drone for investigation.
Officials later conducted extensive verification and searches in surrounding areas to ensure that no suspicious material was linked to the recovered drone.

Security Tightened Ahead Of Amarnath Yatra

The Kathua drone recovery had prompted security agencies to intensify surveillance operations, particularly ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra.

Authorities have stated that they remain on high alert and are investigating every lead connected to drone-related activities in the region.

The pilgrimage attracts thousands of devotees each year, making security preparations a top priority for law enforcement and defence agencies.

Unrest In Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir

Meanwhile, developments across the border have also attracted attention.
Pakistan's human rights body, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), recently expressed concern over rising unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The commission said it was deeply worried about continuing violence in the region and criticised the decision to ban the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) under anti-terrorism laws.

The regional administration officially prohibited the organisation last week, citing concerns over public order and security.

The move has generated debate among activists and rights groups in the region.

Why Drone Intrusions Are A Growing Concern

Drone activity along the India-Pakistan border has emerged as a major security challenge in recent years. Security experts say drones can be used for multiple purposes, including surveillance, reconnaissance, smuggling of narcotics, transportation of weapons, and delivery of explosives.

Their small size and ability to fly at varying altitudes often make them difficult to detect and intercept.

Several incidents reported across Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab in recent years have highlighted the growing threat posed by unmanned aerial vehicles.

India Strengthens Anti-Drone Defences

In response to the increasing drone threat, security agencies have significantly upgraded surveillance infrastructure and anti-drone capabilities along sensitive border sectors.

Advanced radar systems, electronic jamming technologies, and dedicated anti-drone units have been deployed to detect and neutralise potential threats.

The latest intrusion in Poonch serves as another reminder of the evolving security challenges along the LoC.

While no suspicious payload was recovered in this case, officials say vigilance remains critical as security forces continue to counter emerging threats along India's borders.

Security Agencies Remain On Alert

Following the incident, security forces have intensified monitoring across the region and are analysing available intelligence inputs.

Officials have not ruled out the possibility of further attempts involving drones and have urged continued vigilance in border areas.

As drone technology becomes increasingly accessible and sophisticated, experts believe that securing the border against such threats will remain a key challenge for India's defence and security establishment.