Did BSF Catch Two Smugglers and Seize Gold Worth Rs 3.02 Crore Along the India-Bangladesh Border?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Two smugglers apprehended by the BSF.
- 20 gold biscuits seized, valued at Rs 3.02 crore.
- Operation conducted at Ghojadanga checkpost.
- Smugglers claimed to be laborers and drivers.
- BSF encourages public cooperation to combat smuggling.
Kolkata, Dec 1 (NationPress) The Border Security Force (BSF) has apprehended two smugglers and confiscated 20 gold biscuits valued at more than Rs 3.02 crore from their possession along the Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB) in West Bengal's North 24-Parganas district, as reported by an official on Monday.
The operation occurred at the Ghojadanga checkpost where personnel from the 102 Bn BSF of the South Bengal Frontier are stationed. The two individuals were caught attempting to smuggle the gold hidden in the cabin of a truck. The total weight of the seized gold biscuits amounts to 2,332.845 grams, with an estimated value of Rs 3,02,10,343, according to a senior BSF official.
The incident transpired around 4 p.m. on Sunday. The troops had received prior intelligence about a gold smuggling attempt from Bangladesh and were on high alert.
Upon the truck's arrival at the checkpoint, it underwent a thorough search. A cleverly concealed packet was discovered in the cabin, and upon inspection, the troops found the gold biscuits. These were subsequently taken to the Ghojadanga Border Outpost along with the smugglers and the truck.
During interrogation, the smugglers revealed that they are residents of North 24-Parganas district, working as laborers and drivers at a brick kiln. They stated that the gold was given to them by an unidentified individual.
They were supposed to transfer it to another person after crossing the Ghojadanga check post in exchange for a sum of money. The confiscated gold, along with the smugglers and the truck, has been handed over to the relevant authorities for further legal proceedings.
The official commended the troops for their vigilance, stating that the BSF is fully equipped to combat illegal activities such as smuggling and that the personnel consistently demonstrate their dedication.
The official has also urged residents in border areas to report any information regarding gold smuggling by contacting the BSF's Seema Sathi helpline at 14419 or via WhatsApp on 9903472227. A suitable reward will be provided for credible information, and the informant's identity will be kept strictly confidential.