Tension rose along the Indo-Bangladesh border in Sonamura after BSF jawans fired at a group of smugglers late last night. The firing injured a 28-year-old man involved in the smuggling attempt.
BSF Confronts Smugglers at Midnight
Around midnight, a group of smugglers from the Indian side tried to push bundles of sarees and cosmetic products across the Ashabari border under Kalamchaura police station. A BSF patrol from the 81 Battalion noticed the activity and rushed to the spot.
The smugglers allegedly tried to attack the jawans. The patrol then fired in self-defence. They also used a hand grenade, though it caused no injuries. One smuggler, Mohammed Alkas (28), suffered a bullet wound during the clash.
Local residents took Alkas to Boxanagar Health Centre. Doctors later shifted him to GBP Hospital in Agartala. His condition is stable.
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Second Attempt Thwarted in Putia
Yesterday afternoon, another gang tried to smuggle goods through the porous border in the Putia area. The incident took place around 12:30 PM.
BSF jawans spotted the group and ordered them to stop. The smugglers ignored the warning and tried to escape. The jawans fired a few rounds to stop them. No one received injuries in this incident.
Border Area on Alert
The two smuggling attempts created tension in several border villages under Sonamura subdivision. Residents fear more clashes as such incidents have become frequent in recent weeks.
Security forces increased patrolling in the area. Police teams are also monitoring the situation to prevent further unrest.
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