The Border Security Force (BSF) thwarted a smuggling attempt and engaged in a scuffle with alleged Bangladeshi smugglers, resulting in the death of one individual at Kalamchera under Sepahijala District.
According to the BSF, the incident occurred on June 9 at about 7:30 am when BSF troops patrolling near Border Out Post Kalamchera spotted a large group of smugglers armed with sharp-edged weapons attempting to smuggle goods across the International Border.
Despite warnings to halt, the smugglers disregarded the BSF’s commands and turned aggressive, encircling the BSF Jawan on duty and attempting to seize his personal weapon. In self-defense, the BSF Jawan fired a non-lethal round, which further emboldened the smugglers, escalating the situation.
Amidst the scuffle, Constable Rajeev Kumar, sensing a threat to his life and weapon, discharged one round from his INSAS rifle, resulting in the death of one Bangladeshi smuggler close to the border fence and about 150 yards inside Indian Territory.
A subsequent search of the area led to the discovery of a significant quantity of sugar, four machetes, and wooden planks.
The deceased was identified as Anwar Hussain, a 35-year-old resident of Mirpur, Ward No. 5, District Comilla, Bangladesh.
This incident follows a similar altercation on June 2 in the same area, where Bangladeshi smugglers assaulted a BSF Constable, attempted to drag him towards Bangladesh, and seized his personal weapon and radio set.