Kathua, Aug 31: A pigeon bearing a ring with what appears to be a Pakistani mobile number was recovered from a border village in Hiranagar sector of Kathua district, triggering a security inquiry.
Sources told GNS that the bird was noticed by locals in Chhan Khatriyan village early this week. On close examination, a ring tied to its leg was found inscribed with the number 03001717652. The villagers immediately informed the police, who took the pigeon into possession.
Police said the matter is being verified and all aspects are being looked into, including whether the bird has flown across the International Border. The authenticity of the number and whether it belongs to a Pakistani telecom operator is also being examined.
Officials said no incriminating material or note has been found with the pigeon so far, and at this stage no espionage angle has been established. The possibility of the bird being used for pigeon racing or fancy rearing is also not being ruled out.
It may be recalled that a similar incident had come to light in Maniyari area of Hiranagar in May 2020, when a pigeon with a coded ring was found and examined by security agencies.
The recovery comes at a time when security grid is on heightened alert along the Hiranagar frontier following reports of suspected drone movement in Bobiyan area on August 23, which had prompted a search operation by forces.
Police said the inquiry is underway and further details will be ascertained after technical examination of the ring.(GNS)
