Seven Bangladeshi nationals were detected by the Border Security Force (BSF) in Rattacherra area under East Jaintia Hills district and handed over to the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) today.
Acting on specific input, the troops of 172 Battalion of the BSF apprehended the Bangladeshi nationals while infiltrating into India through the international border yesterday.
During preliminary questioning, it was revealed that they were lured by two Bangladeshi touts who facilitated their crossing on payment of Taka 1000 each, the BSF said.
Two of the arrested Bangladeshi nationals, identified as Mohammed Shahjahan (55) and his daughter Aarifa, were also promised free medical treatment at Kolkata by the touts.
“They were bound for Kolkata via Indian village Dona Skur-NH 6- Badarpur railway station (Assam) and further to Kolkata,” the BSF added.
However, as a good will gesture all of them were sent back through a flag meeting held with the BGB.
Meanwhile, a smuggling attempt was thwarted by BSF troops along the Indo-Bangladesh border in Sonata, Dawki and Kasinda areas under East Khasi Hills district.
The troops seized contraband goods worth Rs 9.83 lakh meant to be smuggled into Bangladesh. The items are cattle, sugar, liquor, dupattas, truck rims, biscuits, fish, betel nuts, potatoes, blankets, garlic, and other edible goods.
The BSF said the seized goods have been handed over to the customs office for further action.
