Pakistan and India exchanged the captured soldiers on Wednesday, a few days after a ceasefire was called out between the two countries following the fierce escalation last week.
Pakistan handed over the Border Security Force Official who had accidentally crossed into the Pakistani side from the Ganda Singh Wala/Ferozepur sector. Pakistani security forces had arrested him on April 23, 2025, after he inadvertently crossed into Pakistani territory.
On the Indian side, Pakistan’s Rangers official Muhammadullah crossed into the Indian territory under similar circumstances. The exchange followed several flag meetings between the border forces of the two countries, culminating in the successful repatriation of both individuals earlier today.
In the statement released by the Indian Border Security Force, it was confirmed that Purnam Singh was safely returned to India by the Pakistan Rangers.
The swap of the security officials came at a time when both countries are following the ceasefire call announced by US President Donald Trump, following a four-day fierce aerial and ground combat between Indian and Pakistani forces. Both sides have suffered casualties and loss of infrastructure.
Pakistan claims to have overpowered the India Air Force in an aerial combat, by downing five jets of the adversary.
Read more: ‘Kill them, Kill them’: PAF chief directly ordered Pakistani pilots
Pakistan’s army said on Tuesday that more than 50 people were killed in last week’s military clashes with India, which ended in a ceasefire agreed by the nuclear-armed neighbours, restoring peace to their border.
The arch rivals fired missiles and drones targeting each other’s military installations after India said it struck “terrorist infrastructure” sites in Pakistan and Pakistani Kashmir on Wednesday in retaliation for an attack on tourists.
Pakistan said the targets were all civilian. Its military said the dead in the attacks comprised 40 civilians and 11 of its armed forces.
India has said at least five military personnel and 16 civilians died.
Both agreed to a ceasefire on Saturday, following diplomacy and pressure from the United States.