Agartala, August 05, 2024: In a concerning development, the administration in Tripura has been grappling with a surge in arrests of Bangladeshi nationals suspected of human trafficking. Over the past few days, numerous infiltrators have been apprehended from various parts of the state, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in curbing illegal entry.
In a recent operation, West Agartala Police Station in collaboration with the Border Security Force (BSF) arrested 12 Bangladeshi nationals from different locations in the border Golchakkar area of the capital city. Among the detained individuals, three are women. This wave of arrests is part of a larger trend, with police sources revealing that approximately 40 to 42 Bangladeshi citizens have been taken into custody in the past week alone.
Notably, on July 28 last, 30 Bangladeshi nationals were arrested at Agartala railway station. The demographic of those detained skews younger, with most being under the age of 30. However, the recent arrests include individuals of various ages, indicating a broader range of infiltrators.
A senior officer from West Agartala Police Station confirmed that the detained individuals are being prosecuted under the Foreigners Act and Passport Act. Preliminary investigations have revealed that these nationals entered Tripura through multiple border points and subsequently dispersed in the Golchakkar area. Despite their efforts, the police have yet to uncover the underlying reasons for this influx.
Complicating the situation is the ongoing quota movement in Bangladesh, which has created a volatile environment. This unrest is believed to be a driving factor behind the increased illegal crossings into India. However, the exact motives behind these infiltrations remain elusive. Police officials have noted that while some of the detained individuals attempted to move further into different states of India, the purpose of their entry remains unclear.
The continuous arrests underscore the administration’s struggle to effectively address human trafficking and illegal immigration. As investigations continue, the need for enhanced border security and comprehensive solutions becomes increasingly evident.
