The Assam Police have apprehended four individuals for illegal toll collection and extortion at the Telipara Toll Gate in Gossaigaon, sparking widespread concern over the unchecked activities at critical transit routes. The police swung into action after multiple complaints from truck drivers and transporters who accused unidentified men of stopping their vehicles and demanding illegal payments. Acting on the information, the police reached the site and caught the accused red-handed while they collected money under the pretext of excess cargo charges.
The accused reportedly do not belong to Assam and had been operating at the toll gate for several days. They positioned themselves strategically at the Telipara Toll Gate, targeting vehicles transporting goods from neighbouring states. Their tactic involved blocking the trucks and threatening the drivers with penalties for allegedly carrying loads above the permissible limit. To avoid delays and potential harassment, many drivers paid the demanded amount, believing the extortionists to be officials or authorised personnel.
Law enforcement officials launched the operation early in the morning after verifying several complaints. Officers detained the accused and seized a significant amount of cash allegedly collected during the illegal operation. The police also recovered documents and slips that the extortionists used to make their acts appear legitimate. The authorities took swift steps to dismantle any support network the accused might have used and initiated a full investigation into whether local contacts or officials had aided their activities.
The Superintendent of Police in Kokrajhar confirmed the arrests and stated that the administration would not tolerate any form of extortion or intimidation against transporters using state highways. He assured that the police would step up surveillance at toll gates and transport checkpoints to ensure that no illegal activities compromise the safety and rights of transporters. He further warned that anyone found participating in similar schemes would face stringent legal action.
The police registered a case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code related to cheating, impersonation, criminal intimidation, and extortion. Officials have started interrogating the accused to determine whether the illegal collection was part of a larger racket. Investigators believe the group may have extorted large sums from dozens of unsuspecting drivers over the past few weeks. They are currently tracing their local movements and contacts to uncover the extent of the operation.
The incident has sparked outrage among the transport community in Gossaigaon and surrounding regions. Truck drivers and vehicle owners demanded strict action against those involved and sought improved security at toll gates. They expressed frustration over how easily unauthorised individuals managed to interfere with interstate transport and called for the deployment of police personnel at vulnerable toll points. Drivers shared stories of being coerced into paying up to ₹2,000 per trip to avoid delays and confrontations.
The district administration has promised to take immediate steps to restore order at Telipara Toll Gate. Officials plan to install surveillance cameras and post uniformed officers at key locations. They also intend to sensitise drivers on their rights and create awareness about legitimate toll procedures to prevent such exploitation in the future. Authorities also confirmed that coordination with neighbouring districts and states would continue to monitor suspicious movements of individuals at highway checkpoints.
Local residents expressed shock at the extent of the operation and urged the government to intensify crackdowns on illegal elements infiltrating the region. The residents praised the police for their swift action but urged them to maintain vigilance to deter future attempts. Community leaders emphasised the importance of citizen reporting and cooperation in identifying and rooting out similar crimes.
Assam Police have reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring safe passage for all transporters and travellers. As the investigation progresses, the state aims to send a strong message to criminal elements attempting to exploit strategic transport hubs. The crackdown at Telipara Toll Gate marks a firm step toward securing the state’s highway infrastructure from illegal encroachments and criminal exploitation.
