Seven individuals who were pushed into Bangladesh on December 19 after being declared foreigners were found back inside Assam nearly a week later, raising concerns over border security and the ease of illegal re-entry, officials said on Wednesday.
The group, comprising six men and one woman, was spotted near Manatoli village in the Mahishasan border area of Sribhumi district by members of the Village Defence Party (VDP) during a routine patrol. They were subsequently handed over to the Border Security Force (BSF) for further action.
Authorities said the seven had originally been escorted out of Indian territory on December 19. However, they reportedly re-entered Assam through gaps in border fencing near the Deutali border area, possibly with the assistance of a trafficking network.
VDP personnel added that the individuals were carrying Aadhaar cards and other identity documents, and had shared information about relatives residing in the Barak Valley region. These documents are currently under verification by authorities.
Senior Superintendent of Police Leena Doley confirmed the detention of the group and stated that they are in BSF custody. “Further action will be taken as per protocol,” she added.
Police have launched an investigation to identify and dismantle the alleged trafficking ring that facilitated their return. Security forces have also intensified patrolling and surveillance along the international border to prevent similar incidents.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges in securing porous stretches of the India–Bangladesh border, despite efforts by Assam authorities to curb illegal infiltration and strengthen monitoring along sensitive areas.
- Log in to post comments
