Police in Assam's border district of Dhubri have uncovered an alleged racket of illegal infiltration across the international border. Acting on a tip-off, Dhubri Police raided Jogamaya Ferry Ghat and detained more than 20 Bangladeshi nationals.
Initial questioning has revealed that a group of 38 people entered Indian territory illegally using river and border routes. They were reportedly planning to travel to Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu.
Detainees Say Traffickers Took Rs 15,000–17,000 Each to Bring Them Across
According to officials investigating the case, an organised gang of human traffickers is behind the network. The gang is active on both sides of the border and inside Indian territory.
During initial questioning, those detained told police that the traffickers took Rs 15,000 to Rs 17,000 from each person to bring them into India illegally. Police are now investigating the money transactions.
Police are also trying to identify everyone involved in the network. This includes those who helped the group cross the border, took them to the ferry ghat and arranged their onward journey.
Group of 38 Was Heading to Chennai
Police say a total of 38 Bangladeshi nationals had recently entered India through the Assam border. The plan was to take them from Jogamaya Ferry Ghat out of the state, either by the Brahmaputra river route or by the rail network, so that they could reach Chennai easily.
Search On for Absconding Persons
Dhubri district police are carrying out an intensive search across the area, with special focus on ferry ghats, bus terminals and railway stations. Officials say raids are being conducted at several suspected hideouts to catch the remaining members of the gang.
Legal action will be taken against the foreign nationals who were detained, under the relevant provisions of the law. The case is currently under investigation.