How Did Meghalaya Police Intercept 18 Bangladeshi Nationals Near Dawki Border?
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Shillong, Jan 21 (NationPress) In a significant border security operation, the Meghalaya Police successfully intercepted 18 Bangladeshi nationals and apprehended two Indian touts in the West Jaintia Hills district, near the India-Bangladesh border close to Dawki, as confirmed by officials on Wednesday.
The operation, which was meticulously coordinated, commenced early Wednesday morning based on specific intelligence indicating the movement of undocumented foreign nationals from Jowai towards the Dawki border.
Acting promptly, a specialized team from the West Jaintia Hills Police collaborated closely with the headman and the Village Defence Party (VDP) of Demthring village to halt this movement.
Police reports indicate that the first interception occurred around 3 a.m. in the Amlarem area, where a vehicle carrying four Bangladeshi nationals was stopped following a brief chase.
During the early stages of the operation, two Indian nationals believed to be facilitating this illegal transport were also detained.
Further interrogation of those apprehended revealed that more vehicles transporting Bangladeshi nationals were en route to Dawki.
In response, police established checkpoints in the Amlarem market area almost immediately.
At approximately 3:45 a.m., three additional vehicles were intercepted at these checkpoints. These vehicles were found to be carrying 14 Bangladeshi nationals, bringing the total number of undocumented individuals detained during the operation to 18.
In total, five vehicles were seized, and five drivers were also taken into custody. All individuals apprehended have been forwarded for legal proceedings.
According to an official statement, a case has been registered, with those detained facing action under the provisions of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.
A senior official reiterated the commitment of the West Jaintia Hills district to secure the International Border and curb illegal cross-border activities.
The police have urged headmen and Village Defence Parties throughout the district to maintain vigilance and support law enforcement agencies in preventing illegal infiltration and ensuring the safety of the community.