Shillong, July 20: In a significant breakthrough in cross border crime, North Garo Hills police have recovered two scooties suspected to be stolen by elements of a broader smuggling network operating across Meghalaya-Assam border and Bangladesh.
The two-wheelers were recovered following arrest of one Palsrang R Marak (20) alias Chusrang from Tengasot under Dudhnoi police station in Assam’s Goalpara district.

He was arrested in connection with a case of Resubelpara police station and already produced in court.
Police suspected the person is part of a group involved in stealing two-wheelers from towns including Tura, Resubelpara, and Shillong.
They transport the stolen vehicles to border areas and smuggle them through unguarded routes into Bangladesh.
Officials have raised concern over rising number of such incidents in recent months, describing the trend as a growing threat that goes beyond petty theft and points to a larger cross-border racket.
“This is not an isolated incident. There is a pattern where light two-wheelers are targeted because they’re easier to move and smuggle,” a police source said.

Following the recovery, North Garo Hills Police have assured that efforts are being intensified to identify other members of the gang and bust the entire network, which is believed to span across parts of Meghalaya and Assam.
Police have also urged the public to remain vigilant, secure their vehicles, and report any suspicious activity or missing vehicles without delay.
Border patrols have been stepped up, and coordination with Assam Police and the Border Security Force (BSF) is being strengthened to prevent further smuggling.