A Border Security Force (BSF) jawan fatally shot a Bangladeshi smuggler in self-defense during a confrontation along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal’s Malda district. The incident occurred on the night of August 11-12, when a group of smugglers armed with sharp weapons attacked BSF troops from the Chandnichak Border Outpost.
The deceased smuggler, identified as Abdullah from Rishipara village in Bangladesh’s Chapainawabganj district, had illegally crossed the border to smuggle bidi leaves. BSF officials reported that the smugglers ignored warnings to stop and attacked the jawans, forcing them to fire in self-defense.
“Despite the gunfire, the smugglers continued their assault,” a BSF statement said. “A second jawan also fired in self-defense when attacked.” The smugglers eventually fled, taking advantage of the darkness and dense vegetation.
“The company commander, who was on patrol duty, immediately reached the spot and, along with the jawans, searched the area. They recovered six bundles of bidi leaves and found one Bangladeshi smuggler injured in the jungle. He was taken to the government hospital in Mahesil, Murshidabad, where he later died during treatment,” the BSF added.
The force also mentioned that attacks have also been reported at the Natna Forward, Kaharpara, and Anuradhapur Border Outposts, as well as at the Mahedra and Ghojadanga Border Outposts under Sector Headquarters Kolkata and Krishnanagar in the North 24 Parganas and Nadia districts.
In these incidents, jawans fired stun grenades and other weapons in self-defence, preventing smuggling attempts and illegal intrusions, and seizing 682 bottles of Phensedyl, 50 kg of sugar, and one cattle.
A preliminary report has also been lodged at the concerned police station regarding the attack and the defensive firing.
AK Arya, DIG and spokesperson for the BSF South Bengal Frontier, stated that such incidents are not uncommon. He praised the jawans for their courage and vigilance, noting that similar attacks have occurred at other border outposts in the region.
The BSF has lodged protests with the Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) regarding these unprovoked attacks by Bangladeshi smugglers. Arya expressed concern over the lack of concrete action by the BGB, which he believes has emboldened criminals.
“Despite frequent flag meetings with the BGB to alert them about the ongoing attacks and illegal infiltration by Bangladeshi criminals, no concrete action has been taken. This inaction has emboldened the smugglers and criminals. Nevertheless, our jawans remain steadfast in protecting our borders and ensuring the security of our nation under all circumstances,” Arya said.
(Inputs from ANI)
