In a significant crackdown against cross-border smuggling, the Border Security Force (BSF) seized contraband items worth approximately ₹3 crore in two separate operations carried out in Tripura.
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, BSF’s Quick Reaction Team (QRT) intercepted a suspicious Bolero pick-up vehicle (model HD 17VXI, Registration No: TR05F1736) during the night intervening May 2 and 3, 2025. The vehicle was intercepted near Paddapuker Radhhapur Shiv Mandir along National Highway 08. The driver managed to flee the scene, while two escort vehicles—a Safari in the front and a Wagon R in the rear—also evaded capture.
Upon a detailed search of the intercepted Bolero, BSF personnel recovered 150 cartons containing 15 lakh pieces of foreign-brand cigarettes, including brands such as Elegant, Super Slim Mond, and Patron Nano White. The estimated market value of the seized cigarettes is ₹2.82 crore.
In a separate operation, BSF troops stationed at Border Outpost (BOP) Pathridwar in West Tripura district foiled another major smuggling attempt. The team seized 3,156 mobile phone display units valued at approximately ₹22 lakhs.
A BSF spokesperson confirmed that the force has intensified surveillance and patrolling along both the international border and inland areas to curb the rising threat of trans-border smuggling.
“These operations are part of BSF’s ongoing efforts to strengthen border security and disrupt illegal trade networks operating in the region,” the spokesperson said.
The BSF has reiterated its commitment to maintaining vigilance and working in coordination with other enforcement agencies to eliminate smuggling activities in Tripura and neighboring areas.
