Eight arrested after BSF jawans attacked in Tripura border village
The assault on three Border Security Force personnel occurred in Sipahijala district following an attempt to apprehend suspected smugglers.
Tripura police have arrested eight people in connection with an attack on Border Security Force (BSF) personnel in Boxanagar, Sipahijala district, on Monday. According to ThePrint, Inspector General of Police (Law & Order) Manchak Ipper confirmed that an FIR was registered against 19 people following a complaint from the BSF.
The incident occurred near the India-Bangladesh border when a BSF column was moving through the area. ThePrint reported that the BSF alleged the attack was revenge for an attempt to apprehend individuals involved in the cross-border drug trade. The BSF stated that after observing smugglers, personnel attempted to apprehend them, leading to a scuffle.
According to Mathrubhumi, three BSF jawans from the Rahimpur Kantamura Border Outpost (BOP) were travelling in a government vehicle toward Boxanagar when they were assaulted. The attackers allegedly used iron rods, bamboo sticks, stones, and iron dah to attack the personnel. The attackers also reportedly vandalised a government vehicle and attempted to snatch service firearms.
The BSF complaint, as reported by ThePrint, named Rabiul Hossain as a prime accused, alleging he and others snatched the personal weapon of Constable Manjeet and struck his head. The Sentinel reported that the clash also resulted in injuries to several villagers. BSF personnel had previously detained one alleged smuggler, identified as Hefzur Rahman, during the pursuit.
Police from Kalamchaura police station reached the area to bring the situation under control. Additional forces were deployed to prevent further escalation, and authorities are using CCTV footage to assist in the investigation. Police stated that more accused individuals will be arrested soon.