Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Nov 28: In a swift and well-coordinated operation, the Border Security Force (BSF) thwarted a major gold smuggling attempt along the India-Bangladesh border in Malda district, seizing gold worth over Rs 1.02 crore, officials confirmed on Thursday.

Acting on specific intelligence inputs, troops of the 119 Battalion, stationed at the M.S. Pur Border Outpost, intensified surveillance in the area. Around 2:56 p.m., a man approaching the border with a bicycle aroused suspicion. The jawans intercepted him and began a thorough inspection of the bicycle.

During the search, the front tyre appeared unusually swollen and rigid. On removing it, the BSF team discovered seven gold biscuits cleverly concealed inside. Sensing trouble, the smuggler took advantage of the momentary distraction and fled into a densely populated locality, preventing the BSF from chasing him further due to the risk of collateral damage.

The seized gold was transported to the outpost, where it weighed 816.41 grams, with an estimated market value of Rs 1,02,40,230. Despite conducting an extensive search of the surrounding areas, the smuggler could not be traced.

Officials handed over the confiscated gold to the concerned authorities for further legal proceedings. Appreciating the alertness of the jawans, a BSF South Bengal Frontier official said the force remains committed, vigilant and fully equipped to curb illegal cross-border activities.

The BSF also urged border residents to report any information related to smuggling through the Seema Sathi helpline 14419, or via WhatsApp message or voice note at 9903472227.