Record smuggling seizures: BSF intercepts over Rs 13,000 crore gold and silver along India-Bangladesh border this year

The smuggling of gold, silver, and other contraband along the India-Bangladesh border has escalated significantly in recent months, prompting heightened vigilance and stronger countermeasures by the Border Security Force (BSF). By the end of October this year, the BSF had seized precious metals and other illegal goods worth nearly Rs 1,300 crore, underscoring the increasing scale of smuggling activities in the region.

Surge in Smuggling of Gold and Silver

According to data compiled by the BSF, the force has seized a total of 172.828 kg of gold and 178.805 kg of silver along the India-Bangladesh border by October 31, 2023. This represents a marked increase over the previous year, when the BSF had seized 163.325 kg of gold during the same period. The growing volume of these seizures highlights the rising challenges faced by the BSF in curbing the flow of precious metals smuggled from neighbouring Bangladesh.

A Wide Range of Seized Contraband

In addition to gold and silver, the BSF has also made substantial seizures of other illicit goods. These include 11,866.788 kg of narcotics, over 3.26 million fake Indian currency notes, 14 firearms, and 574 rounds of ammunition. The BSF’s operational efforts have resulted in the apprehension of 4,168 individuals involved in illegal activities and the neutralization of 22 smugglers or miscreants between January 1 and October 31 this year.

Countermeasures Against Infiltration and Smuggling

Addressing these growing challenges, BSF Director General Daljit Singh Chaudhary detailed the force’s expanded efforts to counter infiltration, smuggling, and other cross-border crimes. He emphasized that 15 anti-human trafficking units have been set up by the BSF, operating in depth areas, railway stations, and bus stands in collaboration with local police and the Government Railway Police.

In addition, the BSF has conducted detailed vulnerability mapping along the border and deployed additional manpower and surveillance equipment. These measures are part of a concerted effort to strengthen border security and curb the rising tide of illegal activities along the India-Bangladesh border.

Technological Advancements for Surveillance

As part of its efforts to enhance border surveillance, the BSF has implemented the Electronic Surveillance of Vulnerable Patches (ESVP) project. This initiative incorporates integrated surveillance technology, including CCTV cameras, PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras, infrared sensors, and alarms. These systems are strategically placed along vulnerable patches of the border to monitor illegal activities and ensure greater control over the region.

Coordination with Local Communities and Villagers

The BSF has also fostered close coordination with local communities to strengthen border security. A key initiative in this regard is the ‘Prahari Mitra’ concept, where border residents work closely with BSF personnel to report suspicious activities and combat the influence of anti-national elements. Regular meetings and interactions with local villagers have proven effective in gathering intelligence and preventing smuggling.

Patrolling and Checkpoints

To ensure continuous monitoring, the BSF has increased vehicle patrolling along the border fence during the night, setting up mobile checkpoints in high-risk areas and junction points. This intensive patrolling is designed to prevent smugglers from exploiting gaps in border security, especially during hours of low visibility.

The rising smuggling of gold, silver, and other contraband across the India-Bangladesh border has underscored the need for comprehensive and multifaceted security measures. The BSF’s proactive approach, which includes advanced surveillance technology, closer cooperation with local communities, and intensified patrolling, aims to disrupt smuggling networks and ensure the integrity of India’s borders.

With the significant rise in smuggling activities this year, the BSF remains committed to strengthening its efforts in tackling cross-border crimes, safeguarding national security, and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.

(With agency inputs)