Wireless communication picked up; search operation launched in J&K's Samba

JAMMU: Security forces launched a joint search operation in the remote, hilly hamlet of Sumb in J&K’s Samba district after receiving information that a wireless set had been briefly activated in the area and satellite communication was detected around 1pm Tuesday.“The reported activation of Iridium satellite sets raised suspicion among security agencies, following which a combined team of the Army, police, and personnel from other forces rushed to Sumb’s Makoli village and initiated extensive searches in and around the area,” an official said Wednesday.“Terrorists often switch off such communication devices after contacting their handlers across the border,” said a source, adding that Iridium sets can be used on smartphones through the “Iridium GO!” mobile application, which creates a local Wi-Fi network that an iOS or Android phone can connect to.The operation continued until late Tuesday, but no satellite set or other suspicious material was found. Security was tightened along all routes leading to Sumb, with J&K Police and Village Defence Guards maintaining strict vigil, officials said.The hilly area of Sumb is considered strategically important from a security perspective as the route runs along the Basantar river and leads towards the India-Pakistan international border. Due to its proximity to the border, Samba district is a hotbed of terrorist activities. It serves as a gateway district for ultras heading towards Kashmir Valley via the upper reaches of Samba-Udhampur-Doda-Kishtwar.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.