Two Indian nationals detained at Kurigram border

Police detained two Indian nationals while they were moving suspiciously near the Balarhat border area in Phulbari upazila of Kurigram on Friday evening.

The detainees are Akhirul Khandakar (22), son of Sayeed Khandakar of Natkobari in Cooch Behar of India, and Faruk Mia (23), son of Jamir Ali of Kishamat Karla in the same district.

Mahmud Hasan Nayeem, officer-in-charge (OC) of Phulbari Police Station, confirmed the incident.

He said locals noticed the two men roaming around suspiciously in Purbo Phulmati Balarhat border area under Naodanga union and informed police.

Later, a team from Phulbari Police Station rushed to the spot, detained them, and brought them to the station.

During preliminary questioning, the detainees identified themselves as Indian nationals. Their identities were later verified, confirming that they are residents of the Cooch Behar district in India.

The matter has been reported to the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). After necessary verification, the detainees will be handed over to BGB, OC Mahmud added.

Lt Col Mehedee Imam, commanding officer of Lalmonirhat 15 BGB Battalion, said the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) has already been informed. Preparations are underway to hand them over to BSF by Friday night after completing formalities through a flag meeting.