Shillong, Feb 12: The Border Security Force deployed along the Indo-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya has seized narcotics and other smuggled items worth Rs 41.5 crore while apprehending 172 Indian and 127 Bangladeshi nationals involved in various border-related crimes in 2024.
The BSF in a statement on Tuesday outlined the significant accomplishments of the Meghalaya Frontier, including the successful rescue of 1,612 cattle and the confiscation of contraband items, including: Sugar: 2,547,654 kg, Phensedyl bottles: 2,880, Ganja: 11.50 kg, Yaba tablets: 4,204, Silver ornaments: 28 kg, Liquor bottles: 22,832, Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN): Rs 70,000 and Bangladeshi currency: Taka 9, 12,132.
“The apprehension of 299 individuals (127 Bangladeshi nationals and 172 Indians) during various operations highlights the BSF’s dedication to tackling cross-border crimes. These efforts were bolstered by close collaboration with state and central agencies in joint operations aimed at maintaining peace and preventing illegal activities in the region,” it said.
In addition to its border security duties, the BSF has demonstrated a profound sense of responsibility toward the welfare of the communities residing near the border.
On 16 different occasions, BSF came to the help of needy patients including the injured persons involved in accidents, who were evacuated to either Shillong or the nearest hospital. In addition to this, 35 civic action programmes were conducted in which free medicines and other essential items were distributed to villagers /students. apart from organizing cultural activities.
“These initiatives have played a significant role in enhancing the well-being of the local population and fostered trust between BSF and the border communities. The BSF also actively participated in bilateral meetings to address cross-border issues and enhance coordination with the border guarding forces of Bangladesh,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, troops along the East Khasi Hills border apprehended three Bangladeshi female nationals attempting to infiltrate into India from Bangladesh.
Detecting suspicious movement along the border, BSF swiftly took action and arrested the three women from Dhaka, Bangladesh, was taken into custody and subsequently handed over to Pynursla Police Station for further legal proceedings.
