BSF fires on smugglers at Mallikpur border; One injured in fierce clash

A violent confrontation occurred early this morning at the Mallikpur border in South Dinajpur, West Bengal, between the Border Security Force (BSF) and a group of Bangladeshi smugglers. The incident took place at the Mallikpur Border Outpost (BOP) in the Gangarampur block when five armed smugglers attempted to cross into Indian territory. The smugglers were reportedly trying to smuggle goods into India when they were intercepted by a BSF jawan on duty.

According to official sources, the smugglers launched an attack on the BSF jawan, Orfez Kumar (27), and tried to snatch his rifle. In response, the jawan fired at the smugglers in self-defense. As a result, one of the smugglers, identified as Mohammad Alauddin (32), was shot and sustained injuries. He was transported to the Gangarampur Super Specialty Hospital, where he is receiving medical treatment. The other smugglers managed to escape the scene, despite the BSF’s efforts to apprehend them.

The BSF jawan, Orfez Kumar, was also seriously injured during the attack. He was assaulted with sharp weapons by the smugglers and sustained significant injuries. He was immediately taken to Gangarampur Super Specialty Hospital for medical attention. His condition is currently stable, and he is receiving treatment for his injuries. Kumar is a member of the 91st BSF Battalion, which is responsible for patrolling the Mallikpur BOP.

The incident occurred around 4:30 AM on Wednesday, February 5th. The BSF personnel were stationed at the Mallikpur BOP as part of routine border security operations. In response to the smuggling attempt, the BSF jawan acted swiftly, firing in self-defense to stop the smugglers from crossing the border. The smugglers were reportedly armed with sharp weapons, and one of them attacked the jawan before the exchange of fire took place.

Following the incident, local authorities, including Gangarampur Police, initiated an investigation into the smuggling ring and the identity of the remaining smugglers. The BSF has stepped up its security operations in the region and has increased patrols along the border to prevent further smuggling attempts. The authorities have also intensified surveillance to track the escaped smugglers. According to reports, the smugglers were likely involved in a larger network of cross-border trafficking.

Security officials have noted that smuggling activities along the India-Bangladesh border have been a persistent issue. In the Mallikpur area, which has seen an increase in smuggling attempts, there have been ongoing efforts to improve border security. Barbed wire fencing is currently being installed to strengthen security and prevent illegal activities. In previous incidents, the BSF has seized cattle being smuggled through the same border region. The fencing project is part of broader efforts to curb cross-border smuggling, including goods and livestock trafficking.

Following the altercation, the Gangarampur Police continue to investigate the matter, with a focus on dismantling the smuggling network operating in the region. The BSF, in collaboration with local law enforcement, is working to prevent further smuggling attempts and to ensure the safety of the border. Both the injured BSF jawan and the smuggler are currently receiving medical care at the hospital, and the investigation into the event remains ongoing.