A jawan with the Border Security Force (BSF) in Jammu, who was captured by Pakistani troops for allegedly straying across the border, is being interrogated by Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Pakistan’s powerful spy agency, sources have said.
The jawan is being held at Pakistan army’s Markiwalla camp, sources added and is being questioned about troop deployment on border and BSF weapons by the ISI and Pakistan’s Field Intelligence Unit, sources added.
“Yes, we have arrested an Indian border security official. He is currently under investigation and being treated very well,” said Tasnim Aslam, a spokeswoman for the Foreign Office in Islamabad.
“A contact between the militaries of two countries was made yesterday and another contact is expected soon. If he is not linked with any matter harming our security, and appears clear in the investigation, he may be released after complete investigation of the matter,” she added.
BSF sources, meanwhile, said they are in touch with Pakistani officials to work out a procedure for the release of the jawan, but added there is no guarantee that he will return tomorrow. Sources also said that they hope that the issue is resolved amicably.
The trooper, identified as Satyasheel Yadav, was part of a team patrolling the River Chenab on Wednesday when the engine of the motorboat failed. His battalion had recently shifted to the border from Hisar in Haryana.
While attempting to climb into a rescue boat, the jawan fell into the river and was pushed by strong currents onto the Pakistani side where he was taken into custody.
He was initially spotted by some villagers and was handed over to Pakistan Rangers, who in turn gave his custody to ISI and army.
