On cross-border drug trafficking, the Border Security Force (BSF) in Tripura arrested three Bangladeshi nationals. Further, seized 168 kilograms of cannabis in a joint operation with the state police. The operation was carried out in Uttar Awasthipara, a small Indian village in Dakshin Krishnapur, Radhanagar under South Tripura district, on Friday.
The BSF team, along with Tripura Police and in the presence of the Deputy Collector. And Magistrate of Belonia, conducted a house search in the early hours. During the operation. Large quantities of cannabis, hidden in makeshift containers and household items, were discovered and seized on the spot.
The arrested individuals were identified as Bangladeshi nationals who had illegally entered Indian territory. The initial investigation revealed that the group had been using local networks to store. And transport the cannabis to border areas for smuggling into Bangladesh.
Joint Operation Strengthens Border Vigilance
According to officials, the operation was part of a coordinated effort to curb the growing menace of cross-border drug trafficking. The BSF, which has been intensifying surveillance along the Indo-Bangladesh border. Received specific intelligence inputs about the illegal activities in the area.
Following the tip-off, BSF troops from the Radhanagar border outpost and officers of the Tripura Police swung into action. The team cordoned off the suspected house in Uttar Awasthipara. And conducted an extensive search in the presence of the district administration.
During the search, 168 kg of high-grade cannabis. Also, neatly packed in plastic bags, was found concealed under false ceilings and wooden floors. The contraband was immediately seized, and the suspects were taken into custody for interrogation.
The BSF stated that the successful operation was a result of timely coordination, accurate intelligence, and joint teamwork with the state police.
Cross-Border Drug Networks Under Scanner
Tripura has long been vulnerable to drug trafficking due to its strategic location. And porous international borders with Bangladesh. The BSF has intensified patrolling and surveillance using advanced technology. And intelligence sharing mechanisms to intercept smugglers.
The arrested Bangladeshi nationals reportedly admitted to being part of a larger drug network operating on both sides of the border. They revealed that the cannabis was sourced from nearby forest areas and processed in local hideouts before being transported across the border at night.
Officials are now tracking down the Indian handlers involved in the supply chain. The operation has shed light on the rising involvement of foreign nationals in illegal drug trade within Indian territory.
The seizure is being hailed as a major success in Tripura’s ongoing war against narcotics, coming at a time when both state. However, central agencies are working closely to dismantle trafficking syndicates.
BSF and Police Intensify Anti-Drug Operations
In recent months, several such joint operations between the BSF and Tripura Police have led to large-scale drug seizures and arrests. The agencies have also stepped up efforts to involve local communities in intelligence sharing to curb smuggling activities near the border villages.
Officials emphasized that the BSF is not only guarding the international boundary but also actively combating organized crime networks that exploit the border for illicit trade. The seizure of 168 kg of cannabis highlights the scale at which traffickers. Moreover, operate and the challenges faced by security agencies in tackling the issue.
The three arrested Bangladeshi nationals were later handed over to the police for further legal proceedings under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Investigations are underway to identify their associates and trace the full extent of the cross-border network.
Call for Stronger Coordination
The incident has once again underscored the need for stronger inter-agency coordination and international cooperation to combat cross-border drug trafficking. Officials suggested that enhanced patrolling, advanced surveillance equipment. And community awareness programs could significantly reduce the risk of such illegal activities in border regions.
The BSF has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of India’s borders. It has also urged citizens living near the border to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
The seizure of 168 kg of cannabis and the arrest of three Bangladeshi nationals mark a significant blow to drug trafficking networks operating in the Northeast. As the BSF and state police tighten their grip on illegal cross-border activities, the operation serves as a reminder of India’s unyielding stance against narcotics smuggling.