Shillong,Jan 20: Police arrested 18 Bangladeshis nationals, 2 Indian touts and 5 drivers while they were attempting to cross over to Meghalaya, on Tuesday.
Five vehicles were also seized.
West Jaintia Hills SP Jagpal Singh Dhanoa said in a statement that in the early hours of January 20, around 3 am, the West Jaintia Hills Police Special Team accompanied by the headman and Village Defence Parties (VDPs) of Demthring village, apprehended four Bangladeshi nationals along with one vehicle (ML-04D/7339), driven by Vishal Dkhar of Dawki.
The SP said the vehicle was chased in a hot pursuit from Lad Demthring and intercepted near Sanmala Guest House, Amlarem.
During the operation, two Indian touts; Meban Dkhar and his associate Melari Rasmut were also detained from Lad Demthring along with their vehicle (ML-04D/4739).
Upon questioning, Dkhar revealed that three more vehicles carrying Bangladeshi nationals were coming from Jowai towards Dawki.
Acting on the information; checking was conducted at Amlarem market area.
Around 3:45 am, three vehicles were intercepted: ML-05AD/6424, driven by Blessing Pamthied of Jarain village, ML-04D/4993, driven by Twel Rongngi of Shkentalang village and ML-04E/0640, driven by Rimi Lyngdoh of Shkentalang village.
These vehicles were found ferrying 14 Bangladeshi nationals.
A case has been registered in connection with the incident and all individuals involved have been taken into custody for further legal action under the provisions of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.
The SP said the West Jaintia Hills Police is committed to safeguarding the borders and preventing illegal infiltration.
“Vigilant enforcement efforts, combined with community cooperation, continue to play a crucial role in maintaining peace and security in the region”, he added.
