PoJK resident Zeeshan Mir
By Tehelka Web Desk
A 22-year-old man from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) was apprehended by Army troops after crossing the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir’s Uri sector, with preliminary investigations suggesting that an online relationship and family-related distress may have motivated his actions.
The youth, identified as Zeeshan Mir from Muzaffarabad, allegedly crossed into Indian territory on Saturday night and was intercepted by Army personnel.
Officials involved in the investigation said Mir appeared to be “innocent and deeply distressed” and had been facing pressure from his family to contribute financially and support the household. According to them, the situation had reportedly pushed him into depression.
During this period, Mir came into contact with Irum Bano, a resident of Tulwari village in Uri, through Snapchat. Investigators said the two developed a close relationship after discovering that Mir’s ancestors originally belonged to the same village where Bano lives.
Officials said Mir shared details of his family problems with Bano, who allegedly advised him to cross over to the Indian side and seek a fresh start. The two reportedly discussed a plan under which Mir would surrender to the Army, serve any legal sentence required for illegal entry, and later seek to reclaim ancestral property in the village.
Acting on that plan, Mir crossed the LoC but was detained by Army troops soon after entering the area.
Following his apprehension, authorities summoned Bano to verify Mir’s account. Officials said she appealed to the Army and civil authorities to show leniency and allow Mir to remain in Jammu and Kashmir rather than being deported.
Security agencies are currently examining the claims and investigating whether there were any other motives or influences behind the crossing before deciding on further legal action.
In a post on X, the Army’s Srinagar-based Chinar Corps said its troops acted with restraint during the operation.
“A POJK intruder has been apprehended, who was intercepted by alert Chinar Warriors while crossing the Line of Control in Uri Sector.
“The vigilant troops maintained restraint while challenging the intruder and surgically apprehended the individual. Intruder handed over to JKP (Jammu and Kashmir Police) for further legal proceedings,” the Army said.
