Kolkata, Nov 7 (NationPress) The Border Security Force (BSF), in collaboration with the Railway Protection Force (RPF), apprehended a smuggler and confiscated gold worth over Rs 30 lakh in the Nadia district of West Bengal, according to an official report.

A senior BSF official stated, "Troops from the 194 Battalion received intelligence regarding an impending gold smuggling attempt. Utilizing this information, a joint operation was executed at Bankim Nagar railway station. The team conducted careful surveillance around the station and nearby shops to detect any suspicious behavior."

At approximately 3:10 p.m., an Indian national fitting the description from the intelligence report arrived at the station on a motorcycle. After parking his bike, he headed toward the platform. Roughly five minutes later, he returned to the parking area, where he was apprehended and searched.

The search revealed a small red packet containing two gold pieces in his possession. Additionally, he had two smartphones. The individual was arrested and transported to the Ramnagar Border Outpost, officials confirmed.

The confiscated gold weighed 251.7 grams and was valued at Rs 30,32,985.

During initial questioning, the accused disclosed that he had received a call from a resident of Puttikhali around 1:20 p.m., informing him that another individual would arrive at Bankim Nagar railway station with a small packet. Acting on this tip-off, he reached the station by 2:50 p.m. There, he met with a person from Majhdia, who handed him the packet containing gold.

The accused further admitted he was tasked with delivering the gold to two local goldsmiths in exchange for cash.

The man and the seized gold have been turned over to the appropriate authorities for further legal action. His phone data is under investigation to identify other individuals involved in this smuggling operation.

A BSF official praised the swift action of the troops and their effective collaboration with the RPF in executing the operation within the railway premises. He emphasized that BSF personnel are fully equipped to combat illegal activities such as smuggling, not just along international borders but also within operational regions.

"Our troops are committed to their duties with exceptional focus and vigilance," he added.

The official urged residents in border areas to report any known smuggling activities. They can reach out via the 'Seema Saathi' helpline at 14419 or send messages via WhatsApp at 9903472227. People providing credible information will be rewarded, and their identities will remain confidential," he concluded.