BGB, locals foil BSF’s push-in attempt of 750 people in Brahmanbaria

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and local residents early Friday thwarted an attempt by India's Border Security Force (BSF) to push around 750 people into Bangladesh through the Singarbil border in Bijoynagar upazila of Brahmanbaria, reports UNB.

According to local sources, the situation along the border became tense overnight after reports emerged that BSF had brought hundreds of people to the zero point near the Singarbil area around 2am.

Indian authorities reportedly detained over 600 people in the state of Tripura and 148 more in Rajasthan during a recent nationwide crackdown. New Delhi has claimed that the detainees are mostly Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingyas.

Upon receiving information about a possible push-in, BGB personnel took strategic positions along the border. Local residents also gathered in large numbers to resist the move.

"The BSF was forced to retreat when they saw the BGB and locals assembled along the border," said Mamun Chowdhury, a local union parishad member.

Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sadhana Tripura confirmed the development, stating, "The situation is now under control. The push-in attempt was successfully resisted. However, everyone remains on alert."

Lt Col Jabbar Ahammed, commandant of BGB-25 Battalion, said they responded swiftly and with caution after being tipped off about the incident.

"We're monitoring the situation closely and taking all necessary steps to maintain border security," he added.