Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has intensified its activities in Punjab through a strategic approach involving targeted killings, drug trafficking, and arms supply. Recent low-intensity blasts in Punjab, using crude bombs and grenades, are believed to serve as distractions to facilitate weapon smuggling and drug network expansion. ISI-backed operatives are expected to continue these activities, including targeted killings.
The Punjab Police are advised to remain vigilant against low-intensity blasts, which are meant to instill fear and divert security attention. Investigations reveal that local recruits, particularly young men, are being paid significant amounts, up to Rs 4 lakh per operation, to carry out such attacks. A surge in financial inflows has been noted, attributed to the shift from ideological recruitment to monetary incentives.
Recent trends suggest that the ISI is avoiding large-scale attacks in Punjab, focusing instead on softer targets to avoid drawing excessive attention. Targeted killings are preferred over mass-casualty incidents, serving as tools of intimidation. Arms and drug smuggling play a crucial role in the network’s operations, not only for financial gain but also to supply weapons to Jammu and Kashmir.
While operatives in Kashmir are willing to conduct attacks, infrastructure constraints limit their capabilities. Drones have facilitated the movement of weapons and narcotics across the Punjab border, as smuggling along the Jammu and Kashmir border has become challenging. Border security has been heightened following Operation Sindoor, leading to a decrease in infiltration and contraband movement across the Line of Control.
