How did the BSF catch a smuggler along the Indo-Bangla border and seize silver worth Rs 16.49 lakh?

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How did the BSF catch a smuggler along the Indo-Bangla border and seize silver worth Rs 16.49 lakh?

Synopsis

On July 14, the BSF apprehended a smuggler along the Indo-Bangladesh border, seizing silver ornaments valued at Rs 16.49 lakh. This incident highlights the ongoing battle against smuggling rackets in the region, fueled by high demand for silver jewellery in Bangladesh. Discover how the vigilant BSF thwarted this illegal operation.

Key Takeaways

  • The BSF successfully apprehended a smuggler.
  • 16.71 kg of silver ornaments were seized.
  • The estimated value of the seized items is Rs 16.49 lakh.
  • The operation underscores the ongoing battle against smuggling.
  • The BSF is committed to safeguarding the Indo-Bangladesh border.

Kolkata, July 14 (NationPress) The Border Security Force (BSF) has detained a smuggler and confiscated 16.71 kg of silver ornaments along the India-Bangladesh Border (IBB) in the North 24-Parganas district of West Bengal. These ornaments were in the process of being illegally transported from India to Bangladesh.

According to N.K. Pandey, DIG and spokesperson for the South Bengal Frontier, BSF, the troops of the 143 Bn BSF, stationed at the Bithari Border Outpost, acted on credible intelligence regarding a planned smuggling operation. As a result, all patrol units and checkpoints in the area were placed on high alert. At approximately 10:55 AM on Sunday, the vigilant jawans noticed a suspicious motorcyclist approaching from Daharkanda village, heading towards Hakimpur village.

The individual was halted, and the jawans summoned a motor mechanic for a detailed examination of the motorcycle. Upon inspection, they discovered 14 packets of silver ornaments concealed within the motorcycle's front and rear tyre tubes. The swift action led to the immediate detention of the smuggler, who was then taken to the Hakimpur BOP for further questioning.

The silver ornaments were weighed and appraised, totaling 16.71 kg with an estimated value of Rs 16.49 lakh.

During the interrogation, the captured smuggler disclosed that he had received the 14 packets of silver on the morning of July 13 from an Indian individual near the outskirts of the Bithari market. He was instructed to deliver them to someone in Ghoshpara, Hakimpur, for which he was promised Rs 5,000.

The smuggler, along with the motorcycle and silver ornaments, has been forwarded to the relevant authorities for further legal proceedings.

As per official reports, the smuggling of silver ornaments constitutes a significant illicit operation along the Indo-Bangladesh border.

There is a considerable demand for silver jewellery in Bangladesh; however, the country lacks adequate skilled artisans to produce high-quality items. Consequently, silver is smuggled from India to be crafted into ornaments before being sent back.

According to DIG Pandey, the BSF is implementing robust measures to curb smuggling activities along the Indo-Bangladesh Border and remains vigilant against any smuggling, human trafficking, or illegal infiltration attempts.

Point of View

It's imperative to acknowledge the ongoing challenges posed by smuggling along the Indo-Bangladesh border. The recent apprehension of a smuggler by the BSF underscores the need for heightened vigilance and robust counter-smuggling measures. Nation stands with our security forces in their commitment to safeguard our borders and combat such illegal activities.
NationPress
14/07/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What was seized by the BSF?
The BSF seized 16.71 kg of silver ornaments valued at Rs 16.49 lakh.
Where did the apprehension occur?
The apprehension occurred along the India-Bangladesh Border in the North 24-Parganas district of West Bengal.
What was the motive behind the smuggling?
The smuggling operation was aimed at transporting silver ornaments from India to Bangladesh, where there is high demand for such jewellery.
What actions are taken against the smuggler?
The smuggler has been detained and handed over to the relevant authorities for further legal action.
How does the BSF combat smuggling?
The BSF maintains high alertness, conducts thorough inspections, and employs intelligence inputs to prevent smuggling and illegal activities along the border.