SRINAGAR: A Chinese soldier has been caught by security forces near the border in Ladakh, news agency ANI reported on Monday.
The soldier was caught in the Chumar-Demchok area; he might have entered Indian territory inadvertently, the news agency said quoting sources.
The sources also said he will be returned to the Chinese Army “as per established protocol after following due procedure”.
According to reports, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) soldier was carrying civil and military documents when he was captured by the army.
Indian and Chinese soldiers have been locked in a confrontation at the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh since May. Tension peaked in June when 20 Indian soldiers were killed in the line of duty in a clash with the Chinese at Galwan Valley. Last month, shots were fired in the air more than once as the two armies came face-to-face at Pangong Tso.
There have been several rounds of military and diplomatic talks between the two sides to resolve the standoff but the Chinese have refused to adhere to agreements on restoring status quo.
Army Statement
“A PLA soldier identified as Corporal Wang Ya Long was apprehended in the Demchok sector of Eastern Ladakh on 19 October 2020 after he had strayed across the LAC.
The PLA soldier has been provided medical assistance including oxygen, food and warm clothes to protect him from the vagaries of extreme altitude and harsh climatic conditions.
A request has also been received from the PLA about the whereabouts of the missing soldier.
As per established protocols, he will be returned back to Chinese officials at the Chushul – Moldo meeting point after completion of formalities.”
