A routine investigation into suspected cross-border drug smuggling turned into a major security operation after Rajasthan Police discovered explosives and weapons allegedly delivered by drones from Pakistan.
The Rajasthan Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF), working with the Border Security Force (BSF), recovered approximately 7.75 kg of suspected RDX, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), two Turkish-made pistols and hundreds of cartridges near the India-Pakistan border in Sri Ganganagar district.
Two young men from Punjab were arrested while allegedly collecting the consignment. Investigators suspect the explosives could have been intended for a terror attack, although the intended target remains unknown.
Pakistan drone drop leads to major explosives seizure in Rajasthan
The incident occurred during the night of October 12–13 near village 12 KD in the Raola area of Sri Ganganagar.
According to investigators, three drones reportedly crossed from the Pakistani side and dropped suspicious packages in an agricultural field near the international border.
ANTF personnel initially believed the consignment contained narcotics. However, the search revealed explosives, firearms, ammunition and equipment associated with explosive devices.
ANTF Inspector General Vikas Kumar described the recovered explosives as highly dangerous and capable of causing extensive damage.
A specialised bomb disposal squad was called to safely neutralise the explosive material.
Officials said the recovered consignment included approximately 7.75 kg of RDX, two Zigana pistols and 867 cartridges, according to NDTV's October 15 report.
Two Punjab men arrested as NIA investigates suspected terror network
The arrested suspects have been identified as Lakhwinder from Ferozepur and his cousin Sukhwinder from Jalandhar, both reportedly around 19 years old.
Investigators allege that the two had been working as agricultural labourers near the border while monitoring security movements.
The suspects reportedly told investigators that they were following instructions from a relative identified as RS, who allegedly directed them to collect the consignment.
Authorities are also examining their suspected involvement in a September 13 grenade attack on the Jalalabad police station in Punjab's Fazilka district.
Investigators believe the suspects may have been acting as couriers for a larger cross-border network without knowing the shipment's final destination.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Rajasthan's anti-terror authorities have joined the investigation to identify the handlers and establish the purpose of the explosives.
Officials are examining whether the consignment was intended for an attack during the festive season or in connection with political developments in Punjab. However, no specific target or attack plan has been confirmed.
The accused have reportedly been booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the Arms Act and the Explosive Substances Act.
The investigation continues as security agencies work to establish the full extent of the suspected cross-border network.
