Agartala: The Border Security Force (BSF) reportedly gunned down a suspected smuggler from Bangladesh near the Kalamchera Border Out Post in Tripura’s Sepahijala district.
The slain Bangladeshi national was identified as Anwar Hussain, 35, from Mirpur, Ward No. 5, in Comilla district.
BSF personnel patrolling the border area identified a large group attempting to cross the International Border with illicit goods at approximately 7:30 AM.
According to a BSF press release, the individuals, positioned on both sides of the border fence, disregarded warnings to halt their activities.
The situation escalated as the group reportedly exhibited aggressive behaviour, attempting to encircle the BSF patrol. Fearing an imminent threat to their safety and potential weapon seizure, BSF personnel deployed non-lethal measures to deter the group. However, these efforts proved unsuccessful, it said.
A subsequent physical confrontation ensued. In the course of this incident, and in response to a perceived grave threat, a BSF constable discharged his service weapon. This resulted in the fatality of a Bangladeshi national within Indian territory, close to the border fence.
A post-incident search of the area revealed a significant quantity of suspected smuggled goods, along with several implements.
The BSF has expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and has initiated an investigation into the events surrounding the incident.