On May 8, the Border Security Force (BSF) successfully thwarted a significant infiltration attempt involving 45 to 50 terrorists in the Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir. This operation was executed using heavy mortar fire to dismantle enemy positions after Pakistan attempted to facilitate the infiltration under the guise of ceasefire violations, as confirmed by BSF officials.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) SS Mand reported that the BSF's prompt response to the shelling effectively neutralized enemy posts and prevented the terrorists from breaching Indian territory. He emphasized that the forces were well-prepared and executed a robust counter-offensive to halt the infiltration supported by Pakistan.
Mand stated, "Our courageous soldiers inflicted substantial losses on the enemy. We received intelligence about a large group attempting to infiltrate, and we were ready. On May 8, we detected a group of 45-50 individuals advancing towards our position. After assessing the situation, we launched heavy bombardment, which was crucial. They retaliated with significant fire, but we responded with precise and intense fire, causing them to retreat from their posts within 1.5 hours."
He also highlighted the presence of BSF officers alongside soldiers at forward posts, which significantly boosted troop morale. Mand praised the contributions of women soldiers, stating, "Our female troops stood shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts, effectively carrying out all duties. We take immense pride in them."
He further remarked, "The presence of our officers at the forward posts played a vital role in maintaining high morale among our troops. We successfully destroyed their bunkers and diminished their firepower. Our personnel remain highly motivated, and if the enemy attempts any further action, we will respond with tenfold force. The BSF has clear directives in this regard."
In a related development, Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the Poonch Brigade headquarters on Wednesday, where he interacted with Indian Army soldiers and BSF personnel stationed in the region.
Additionally, the BSF has resumed the ceremonial evening retreat at all three Joint Check Posts (JCPs) along the Punjab border. The Beating Retreat ceremony, which includes the flag-lowering event, has recommenced at the Attari-Wagah, Hussainiwala, and Sadqi JCPs. This event had been suspended on May 9 following the tragic Pahalgam attack and the initiation of Operation Sindoor to avenge the victims of that attack, but it is now open to the public once more.
Operation Sindoor was launched by India on May 7 as a decisive military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals. The Indian Armed Forces targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the elimination of over 100 terrorists linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
Following India's strike on terrorist infrastructure, Pakistan retaliated with cross-border shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) and in Jammu and Kashmir, as well as attempted drone strikes on civilian areas near the border. In response, India neutralized Pakistani air defense systems, radar installations, and communication centers, inflicting significant damage across 11 airbases in Pakistan.
On May 10, an agreement on the cessation of hostilities between India and Pakistan was announced.