BSF foils infiltration attempt along India-Bangladesh border in Bengal

Kolkata, July 28 (IANS): The Border Security Force (BSF) has foiled an infiltration attempt along the India-Bangladesh border (IBB) in Nadia district of West Bengal, officials said.

AK Arya, DIG and spokesperson of BSF, South Bengal Border Area, said the incident took place around 2.40 am on Saturday under the jurisdiction of Ranghat border outpost.

“A jawan of the 68 Bn BSF spotted activity across the Kodalia River, which forms a natural boundary between the two countries. About 8-10 Bengalis entered India through a banana plantation. When the jawan challenged them and ordered them to retreat, they rushed forward in an attempt to attack him with sharp weapons. The jawan first threw a stun grenade, but it was not enough to deter the group. He then fired two rounds at them. The intruders then fled back to Bangladesh, taking advantage of the darkness and dense foliage,” the DIG said.

He further said that attempts to smuggle drugs in Ranghat and Mamabhagina (in Nadia) were also foiled by the troops. “BSF jawans were also targeted by Bengali criminals at several outposts in North 24-Parganas, Murshidabad and Malda districts. At some locations, the jawans had to use stun grenades and pump action guns,” Arya added.

“After the infiltration attempt, a meeting was held with Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and a strong protest was registered. Unfortunately, despite several meetings, the BGB is refusing to take action against criminals. This inactivity encourages them to carry out criminal activities along the IBB. However, our jawans are vigilant and will continue to protect the interests of the nation,” the DIG said.