Cattle Smugglers Posing As BSF Troops Arrested Near India-Bangladesh Border; Fake Gun, Swords Recovered

In a bizarre and audacious attempt, cattle smugglers along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal tried to smuggle cattle while dressed as Border Security Force (BSF) personnel.

However, their plan was swiftly thwarted by alert BSF jawans, who intercepted and arrested the suspects carrying sharp swords and knives, reported The Hindu.

Smugglers Caught in BSF Uniforms

During multiple operations along the Malda and Murshidabad border areas, the South Bengal Frontier of BSF successfully foiled smuggling attempts, leading to the arrest of four individuals.

Among them, three smugglers were caught near the Pannapur Border Outpost of the 88th Battalion, dressed in BSF uniforms and carrying a fake plastic gun.

The individuals were attempting to smuggle cattle from India into Bangladesh.

Two buffaloes were recovered from them, along with two swords and a knife, suggesting that the smugglers were prepared for violent resistance.

Another individual was apprehended carrying five bags filled with 897 bottles of Phensedyl, a cough syrup commonly trafficked across the India-Bangladesh border.

Some of his accomplices managed to escape. Upon interrogation, he confessed to being a Bangladeshi national involved in illegal smuggling activities.

Seized Goods and Legal Proceedings

Following their arrests, the individuals and seized items were handed over to local authorities for further legal action.

The rescued cattle have been tagged electronically and will be handed over to the Dhyan Foundation, a recognised organisation that rehabilitates animals rescued from illegal smuggling.

BSF's Stance on Smuggling and Infiltration

A spokesperson from the South Bengal Frontier of the BSF reiterated the force’s commitment to eliminating illegal activities along the border.

"BSF is fully committed to eliminate illegal activities on the border. Our jawans are always alert and prepared to foil any attempt at illegal infiltration or smuggling," he said, stressing that security measures have been tightened to combat border crimes.

Growing Tensions Along the Border

The recent incidents come amid heightened tensions between India and Bangladesh following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in Bangladesh.

In a separate operation last week, seven illegal Bangladeshi nationals were arrested alongside three Indian agents who allegedly facilitated illegal border crossings.

Additionally, diplomatic disputes have emerged over border fencing issues, particularly in the Malda-Rajshahi and Cooch Behar-Lalmonirhat sectors. While both countries have summoned their diplomats to address concerns, border forces on both sides have exercised restraint and engaged in talks to de-escalate tensions.

Also Read: Adani Group Withdraws From Wind Power Projects In Sri Lanka Amid Negotiation Hurdles: Report