Reported by Mrinal Kanti Banik
Kailashahar: A Bangladeshi national was killed in firing by the Border Security Force (BSF) along the India-Bangladesh border in Tripura’s Unakoti district on Friday evening, following an alleged attempt by a group of intruders to enter Indian territory for smuggling activities.
The deceased has been identified as 26-year-old Mujibur Rahman Mujib, a resident of Dattagram village under Sharifpur Union in Kulaura Upazila of Bangladesh’s Moulvibazar district.
According to security and local sources, a group of Bangladeshi nationals reportedly crossed the international border near the Latiapura border area under Gournagar block in Kailashahar subdivision. BSF personnel on patrol intercepted the group, leading to a confrontation during which the border guards opened fire.
Mujib sustained bullet injuries and died on the spot. Sources further claimed that three other alleged Bangladeshi smugglers were injured in the incident but managed to retreat across the border into Bangladesh. Their identities and condition remain unknown.
The body was recovered and taken to Unakoti District Hospital in Kailashahar for post-mortem examination. Officials said the body is expected to be handed over to Bangladeshi authorities after a flag meeting between the BSF and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).
The incident was also acknowledged by local representatives in Bangladesh. Sharifpur Union member Md Harun-or-Rashid confirmed receiving reports of Mujib’s death and injuries to several others during the border firing.
Officials from the BGB’s Srimangal Battalion said they had heard gunshots from the border area and were in touch with the BSF regarding the reported casualties. According to BGB sources, the BSF stated that the firing targeted individuals accused of illegally entering Indian territory.
Security measures have been intensified along the border following the incident. The BSF, local police, and civil administration have launched an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the firing.
No official statement had been issued by the BSF at the time of filing this report.