675 illegal immigrants apprehended in Tripura in 2024 by BSF
Border Guards posted across the frontier of Tripura apprehended a total 675 illegal immigrants including 55 Rohingyas and 620 Bangladesh nationals so far this year. The BSF also seized 66,316 bottles of Phensedyl cough syrup, over 9,000 kg of Ganja and more than six lakh Yaba tablets during the period.
The Border Security Force (BSF), which celebrated its 60th Raising Day at the Frontier headquarters at Shalbagan area of Agartala on Sunday, where Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He paid tribute to the martyrs who laid down their lives in the line of duty and felicitated the veterans of the 1971 War. The Chief Minister extended his best wishes to all BSF personnel and lauded their efforts in maintaining peace and tranquility along the border. He also released the BSF Magazine, "Gajraj."
BSF through a statement said that since its inception in 1965, the BSF has dedicated itself to the service of the nation, upholding exemplary standards of bravery and professionalism. The Force continues to address multifaceted challenges involving national security, living up to its motto: “Jeevan Paryant Kartavya” (Duty Unto Death).
In Tripura, over the years, the BSF Tripura Frontier has undertaken numerous responsibilities, including combating insurgency, maintaining the sanctity of the border, and preventing trans-border crimes. These tasks have been accomplished under adverse climatic conditions in remote and inhospitable terrain, including malaria-infested zones. The BSF has also consistently maintained synergy with state authorities and other security and intelligence agencies, safeguarding the borders and fostering harmony among border populations.
The BSF Tripura Frontier achieved several milestones during 2024 and troops maintained high levels of surveillance and alertness, resulting in the rescue of 1,383 cattle heads and the seizure of contraband, including 66,316 bottles of Phensedyl, 9,203.24 kg Ganja, 605,334 Yaba tablets, Sugar 1,222,894.5 kg, Gold 496.26 gm, Brown Sugar: 381.01 gm, arms and ammunition: 1 pistol (7.65 mm) and 210 items (ammunition/tinny arms),Bangladeshi currency: 48,60,735 Taka and miscellaneous items worth ₹46,00,45,074.
The BSF conducted numerous Civic Action Programs, including free medical camps, skill development training, sports tournaments, and cultural activities for the welfare of border populations.
Events such as band displays, weapon exhibitions, motorcycle rallies, border visits for school children, tree plantations, unity runs, sports events, and blood donation camps were organized across Tripura. On International Yoga Day, yoga sessions were held at various locations, and a Swachhta Abhiyan was conducted at the sector, unit, and Border Outpost (BOP) levels. A large-scale plantation drive was also launched to protect the environment.
The IG BSF–Region Commanders BGB Border Coordination Conference was held in Shillong, Meghalaya, in July 2024. Key bilateral issues were discussed to enhance coordination between the two Border Guarding Forces, promoting the welfare of border populations and maintaining ties between the two friendly nations.
During recent unrest in Bangladesh, the BSF, in coordination with the BGB and other agencies, ensured the safe return of Indian students and workers, providing them with all possible assistance. During the recent flood situation, the BSF also extended its support to the people of Tripura.
The Border Security Force, Tripura Frontier, remains steadfast in its mission to protect Tripura's international borders. It will continue to coordinate closely with all key stakeholders to ensure the security and welfare of the state, said the statement.