BSF personnel attacked with sticks during anti-smuggling ops in Tripura, 8 arrested

Three Border Security Force (BSF) personnel were injured after they were allegedly attacked by a group of suspected smugglers in the Ashabari area under Boxanagar in Tripura on Monday morning.

According to reports, the incident occurred when BSF personnel attempted to intercept the suspected smugglers. The situation escalated as the group allegedly attacked the jawans and attempted to snatch their firearms. The attackers also reportedly vandalised a government vehicle before fleeing the scene.

During the pursuit, the suspects scattered in different directions. However, BSF personnel managed to apprehend one alleged smuggler, identified as Hefzur Rahman, approximately 400 metres from the incident site.

The incident triggered tension in the locality and raised concerns over the safety of security personnel deployed in the border area.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha strongly condemned the attack and directed the concerned authorities to take immediate and stringent action against those involved.

In a statement shared on X, the Chief Minister termed the assault on BSF personnel unacceptable and stressed that violence against security forces must be dealt with firmly under the law.

He further said that the authorities had been instructed to ensure that those responsible were brought to justice, adding that security personnel must be given the respect and protection they deserve.

The incident has once again brought attention to the challenges faced by border security personnel in tackling alleged smuggling activities in the region.