Did BSF Catch a Bangladeshi Smuggler with Gold Worth Over Rs 3 Crores?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- BSF's commitment to combating illegal activities.
- Importance of community involvement in border security.
- Significant value of the seized gold indicates serious smuggling operations.
- Cross-border smuggling remains a critical issue in the region.
- Continuous vigilance is necessary to maintain border integrity.
Kolkata, Dec 3 (NationPress) The Border Security Force (BSF) has successfully apprehended a smuggler and confiscated gold biscuits valued at over Rs 3 crore from him along the Indo-Bangladesh Border in the Nadia district of West Bengal, as confirmed by an official on Wednesday.
The smuggler was intercepted by vigilant troopers in the Area of Responsibility (AOR) of the Tungi Border Outpost while attempting to transport the gold across the international border, using dense water hyacinth as a cover.
"Troops of the 32 Bn BSF were alerted on Tuesday afternoon regarding a smuggling attempt involving gold. They promptly went on high alert and set up ambushes along various routes. Around 5 pm, one of the teams noticed unusual movement in a water body dividing the two nations. Upon closer examination, two individuals were seen trying to cross into India, utilizing the thick hyacinth for concealment," reported a senior official from the BSF's South Bengal Frontier.
"Despite the darkness surrounding the area, the jawans successfully apprehended one of the suspects. The other fled towards Bangladesh, taking advantage of the night. A detailed search of the vicinity resulted in the recovery of multiple packets, which were collected and transported to the Tungi BOP along with the apprehended smuggler," the official added.
The packets contained 20 gold biscuits, weighing a total of 2,354.73 grams, valued at Rs 3,05,99,716.
Upon interrogation, the smuggler disclosed that he hails from Bangladesh and has been involved in illegal cross-border activities for some time. He further indicated that he was to deliver the gold in exchange for monetary compensation.
He has been handed over to the relevant authorities along with the gold for further legal proceedings.
BSF DIG N.K. Pandey commended the efforts of the troops, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to curbing illegal activities along the border and their readiness to overcome any challenges to execute their duties.
He also urged residents living near the border to report any information related to gold smuggling to the BSF through the Seema Sathi helpline number 14419 or WhatsApp number 9903472227, either via message or voice note. Credible information will be rewarded, and the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.