ISI-backed entities use commercial drones for arms shipments across borders

In a major breakthrough, the crime branch has uncovered a first-of-its-kind ISI-backed operation wherein commercial drones were being used to smuggle high-end arms into the capital, marking a significant escalation in the city’s security threats. The probe revealed that modified UAVs with extended range and enhanced payload capacity were being deployed to deliver weapons with precision near the international border.

Special CP (crime) Devesh Srivastava said, "Operations were strictly scheduled during late-night hours to maximise the cover of darkness. The drones were flown at a low altitude, a tactic designed specifically to evade radar and visual detection by hugging the terrain."

Investigators found that the high-value consignments—arms and ammunition—were dropped at pre-selected GPS points strategically located near vulnerable stretches of the border fence. On the Indian side, a well-organised receiver network ensured swift retrieval. DCP Sanjeev Kumar Yadav said, "On the Indian side, a network of receivers was tasked with retrieving the material shortly after the drop, minimising the time the weapons were exposed and simplifying the logistics for the terrorist operatives."


To avoid electronic detection, the consignments were wrapped in specialised carbon paper. Encrypted communication, frequently shifted locations and timings, and anonymous hawala-based payments kept the operation concealed. Joint CP Surendra Kumar said, "The payment structure relied on anonymous hawala channels, further cementing the organised and trans-national nature of the crime."

A retired senior police officer highlighted the larger implications of the case, stating, "The use of drones to ferry these arms into the country demonstrates an effort to bypass traditional, heavily fortified border defences, thus establishing a new, high-tech terror corridor." He added, "The significance of the seizure, therefore, extends beyond the immediate removal of lethal firepower; it exposes a complex, highly secure logistics channel where ISI is leveraging organised crime networks to push its destructive agenda deeper into the country."

The investigation also shed light on the growing use of foreign-made weapons in the Delhi-NCR region. The Lawrence Bishnoi group initially popularised the use and sale of such pistols—most of them Pakistan-made copies—in high-profile crimes. Smaller gangs continue to rely on copies, while bigger groups have shifted to procuring original foreign-made firearms.

Following the crackdown, agencies have intensified efforts to apprehend US-based gangster Sonu Khatri, who allegedly spearheaded the module. A lookout circular has been issued as attempts to bring him back to India are underway, sources said.

(With inputs from TOI)