The Indian Border Security Force (BSF) launched "Operation Alert" along the Indo-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya from 10 August to 16 August to ensure foolproof security in the run-up to Independence Day.

According to an official release from the BSF, the operation is being carried out in close coordination with the State Police and other law enforcement agencies.

The BSF has deployed additional troops in forward border locations, and senior officers from Frontier (FTR) headquarters and Sector headquarters have moved to the border and are supervising the operation.

This operation involves intensified area domination, round-the-clock patrolling, surprise naka checks and riverine patrols to plug gaps in the border.

Special emphasis is placed on countering cattle smuggling, contraband movement, and illegal crossings. Vulnerable routes – both land and riverine – are under continuous surveillance through coordinated ground and water patrols, with night vision equipment and mobile patrol teams pressed into service.

Inspector General of FTR headquarters, BSF Shillong, OP Upadhyay, who is presently on the border, said that "Operation Alert" reflects the Force's commitment to safeguarding national security during the festive season and preventing any disruption by inimical forces. The operation will remain in force till 16 August, maintaining a robust security grid across the entire Meghalaya frontier.

Meanwhile, demonstrating high levels of vigilance and operational efficiency during the second quarter (25 April-25 July) of 2025, BSF Meghalaya reported a total of 33 significant seizures.

In claimed seizures, 35 individuals (23 Indian nationals and 12 Bangladeshi nationals) were apprehended, and goods worth more than Rs 39 lakh were seized. Recently, BSF Meghalaya seized mobile displays worth more than Rs 31 lakh, which seems to be a new trend in smuggling.

During this period, BSF Meghalaya apprehended 116 Bangladeshi and 34 Indian nationals for their involvement in illegal infiltration and smuggling activities. Among them were four touts, two Indian and two Bangladeshi nationals, actively facilitating cross-border movement.

Source: ANI