Fresh security audit of IB on cards

Srinagar, Apr 2: Following fresh terrorist incidents in Jammu’s division’s Kathua district, a new security review of the International Border (IB) is on the anvil that is likely to further tighten counter-infiltration measures in the days to come.

Top security officials said that there was an imperative need to step up further surveillance along the IB through the use of advanced technical means.

They said that intelligence suggests that infiltration attempts had started and that security agencies were determined to counter these efforts before they formed into attacks.

“Security agencies will carry out a new security audit of the IB to improve counter-infiltration mechanisms,” a senior security establishment officer said. “There are increased apprehensions now about cross-border terror and fresh efforts by Pakistan-based terror groups to infiltrate terrorists onto the Indian soil.”

As per the senior security officials, the audit would be used to detect loopholes along the IB and employ cutting-edge technology solutions to keep future infiltrations at bay.

“We are re-examining our security grid along the IB, especially in weak stretches. The forthcoming security audit will enable us to refine our counter-infiltration strategies,” a senior Border Security Force (BSF) official said.

“The new security audit would be conducted by several agencies including the BSF, Army, intelligence agencies, and Jammu and Kashmir Police, to provide a thorough assessment of the security machinery of the border,” the senior security officials said.

A senior Police official said that the recent incidents in Kathua underline the necessity for increased surveillance.

“The terrorists infiltrate via the IB and get to travel a few kilometres before being eliminated. This requires a complete evaluation of security mechanisms. We are working in tandem with other agencies to fill the gaps,” the officials said.

Reports in the security establishment suggest drone monitoring, ground sensors, and more night-vision gear would be used in important infiltration-prone locations.

“The topography in areas of Kathua, Samba, and other districts of Jammu facilitates the entry of infiltrators easily. We will attempt to further strengthen the fence and use state-of-the-art technology to anticipate any infiltration attempts,” another official in the security establishment said.

With the security audit expected to commence in the coming days, security agencies remain on high alert, ensuring that any new infiltration attempts are thwarted.

The security forces have also urged locals to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to authorities immediately.

The audit may involve tightening measures at the border, deployment of more high-power night-vision cameras and sensors, more surveillance by drones in infiltration-prone areas, heightened intelligence-sharing across agencies and tightening border fences and patrols.

Last week, four policemen were killed in the line of duty while battling infiltrators.

Two terrorists were also killed during the fierce encounter.