Amidst ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions between India and Pakistan, the Border Security Force (BSF) apprehended a Pakistani intruder near the International Border (IB) in the Amritsar sector of Punjab on Tuesday evening, May 20, 2025.

BSF troops, maintaining heightened vigilance along the border, noticed suspicious movement as an individual crossed the IB and approached the border fence. Responding swiftly, the BSF personnel challenged the intruder, successfully apprehending him. The incident occurred near the village of Karimpura, located in the rural district of Amritsar.

During the initial search, authorities recovered ₹330 in Pakistani currency from the intruder's possession. The individual identified himself as a Pakistani national. Following the apprehension, the BSF conducted a preliminary interrogation, along with associated intelligence agencies, to gather initial information. The intruder was subsequently handed over to the local police for further investigation. The police will delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding the border crossing and attempt to ascertain the individual's motives for entering Indian territory.

The BSF's swift action underscores its commitment to safeguarding the nation's borders and preventing infiltration attempts. This incident follows a similar event earlier this month, where the BSF shot dead a Pakistani intruder in the Ferozepur sector during the intervening night of May 7-8. The individual was observed purposefully crossing the International Border in the dark.

These incidents occur against a backdrop of recent military conflict between India and Pakistan, sparked by an attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir. While a ceasefire agreement brokered by the US is currently in place, tensions remain. Both countries have agreed to withdraw troop reinforcements to pre-conflict positions by the end of May, signaling a move towards de-escalation.

Meanwhile, the Border Security Force has resumed the ceremonial evening retreat at all three Joint Check Posts (JCPs) along the Punjab frontier from May 20. The Beating Retreat ceremony, also known as the flag-lowering event, at the Attari-Wagah, Hussainiwala, and Sadqi Joint Check Posts (JCPs) of the BSF, which had been suspended on May 9 resumed. However, certain modifications have been implemented, including keeping the border gates closed and suspending the customary handshake between BSF personnel and Pakistan Rangers. Despite these changes, the ritual of lowering the national flag continues daily.

DIG AK Vidyarthi of the BSF has highlighted an increase in drone activity and weapon seizures along the border in recent months, attributing it to a change in leadership at Pakistan's ISI. According to Vidyarthi, there has been a significant rise in incidents of sabotage and attempts to push arms through drones since Asim Malik became the ISI chief.

The BSF remains vigilant and committed to maintaining the security and integrity of the International Border, addressing infiltration attempts and other potential threats to national security.