Suspicious balloons with dollars and Pakistani currency found near LoC, probe underway

Akhnoor (The Uttam Hindu): Suspicious activity has once again been reported near the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, where two unusual balloons carrying US and Pakistani currency were recovered in the border region of Akhnoor. Following the discovery, security agencies and the police have intensified surveillance and launched extensive search operations in the area.

According to police officials, the balloons were recovered from Gunara village under the jurisdiction of Khor police station. The red and white balloons were designed in the shape of airplanes and carried markings linked to Pakistan. Authorities found several suspicious items attached to the balloons, including a Pakistani 5,000-rupee note, one US dollar, a Pakistani mobile number and a QR code-like image.

The recovery of these balloons has raised security concerns, especially in view of the recent encounter in Kishtwar in which security forces neutralized three terrorists. The timing and location of the recovery have prompted agencies to remain on heightened alert and closely monitor the border region.

Officials said similar balloons have been found near the border earlier, but the presence of foreign currency and QR codes makes this case unusual. Investigators are examining whether the currency notes are genuine or fake and are also analysing the QR codes and mobile numbers to trace possible links. Authorities are probing whether the incident could be part of a new cross-border conspiracy.