NIA Probes Drone-Based Arms Smuggling Linked to Cross-Border Terror Plot

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched a detailed investigation into the smuggling of arms and explosives through drones across the India-Pakistan border, suspecting a larger terror conspiracy aimed at targeting multiple locations in the country, officials said on Monday.

The probe was initiated following directions from the Union Home Ministry, which transferred the case to the federal anti-terror agency citing its serious national security implications and possible international linkages. The case was originally registered by the Punjab Police in February this year.

According to officials, intelligence inputs received by the State Special Operations Cell (SSOC), Amritsar , indicated that a Pakistan-based operative, Jasvir Chaudhary, was orchestrating the operation with the help of his Indian associate Shubham Kumar and other unidentified individuals. Acting on Chaudhary’s directions, the accused allegedly facilitated the delivery of a large consignment of arms, ammunition, and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) using drones from across the border.

Investigators believe that the smuggled weapons were intended for carrying out coordinated terror attacks in Punjab, Delhi, and other parts of the country. An FIR in this connection was registered on February 10 after authorities received credible information about the plot.

In its order, the Union Home Ministry described the case as a criminal conspiracy hatched by “foreign elements” to execute terrorist acts in India using advanced smuggling techniques. It noted that the gravity of the offence, along with its cross-border dimensions and potential impact , necessitated a thorough probe by the NIA.

Officials also pointed out that the agency had registered a similar FIR last month in connection with another Punjab arms-dropping case, suggesting an emerging pattern of drone-based infiltration tactics being employed by hostile networks.

The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the broader network , identify all individuals involved, and dismantle the infrastructure supporting such cross-border operations, as agencies remain on high alert to prevent any potential attacks.