Security agencies in Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir recovered improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on Friday, February 20, 2026, in separate incidents one near a police post in Amritsar and another in Safapora, Ganderbal. Both devices were safely defused by bomb disposal squads after being spotted in suspicious bags, averting any casualties.
Increased Security Alerts After Delhi Threat Warning
The recoveries come as security forces nationwide remain on high alert following intelligence inputs suggesting a possible terror plot by the Pakistan-based extremist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) targeting sensitive locations in New Delhi, including religious and heritage sites such as the Red Fort and nearby markets. While authorities have not confirmed a direct link between the found devices and the Delhi threat, the timing of the incidents has raised concern among agencies.
Punjab: Suspicious Bag Triggers Alert
In Amritsar, locals spotted a suspicious bag near the Rayya police post and alerted authorities. Police quickly cordoned off the area and called in the bomb disposal squad, which identified the contents as an IED and defused it safely following standard procedures. Senior Superintendent of Police Sohail Qasim Mir confirmed there were no casualties or damage from the incident.
Kashmir: Device Found and Neutralized
On the same day, security forces located another suspected IED in Safapora, a locality in Ganderbal district. A combined team from the Army Bomb Detection Squad (BDS) and Jammu and Kashmir Police promptly responded, cordoned off the area and neutralised the explosive without incident. This marked at least the third IED discovery in North Kashmir this week, following finds in Tangmarg Road and Baramulla in the days prior.
Security Strengthened Across Key Zones
In response to the potential terror threat, security has been intensified across major cities, especially in the national capital region. Police and paramilitary units have bolstered deployments around religious sites, tourist hubs and crowded markets to prevent any possible attacks. Officials emphasised that vigilance remains high and any suspicious activity reported by citizens will be acted upon swiftly.
No Direct Link Yet to Terror Plot, But Alert Continues
While so far there has been no official confirmation connecting the IED recoveries to the alleged LeT terror plot, authorities are treating every discovery with utmost seriousness. Intelligence inputs suggest possible targeting of Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk temples and other sensitive zones, prompting a nationwide alert aimed at thwarting any planned attacks.
Public Caution and Police Response
Officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any unattended packages or suspicious behaviour to local law enforcement. Police reiterated that the proactive defusing of the devices highlights the effectiveness of intelligence sharing and rapid response mechanisms, which are critical in maintaining public safety amid evolving terror threats.