Suspected smuggler killed; another injured in BSF firing in Tripura

Agartala: One suspected smuggler was killed while another one was injured as a result of a confrontation between BSF troopers stationed at the Indo-Bangladesh borders of Tripura’s Sonamura subdivision on Wednesday night.

While another one sustained severe injuries during the exchange of gunfire, leading to the demise of Saheed Miah.

Another injured individual, identified as Kabil Miah, is currently receiving medical treatment at a private hospital in Agartala, as confirmed by the Superintendent of Police for Sepahihala district, BJ Reddy, on Thursday.

Reportedly, a BSF patrol unit detected suspicious activity involving smugglers in the border area. Subsequently, a pursuit ensued, resulting in a confrontation between the BSF troopers and the smugglers. In what was described as an act of self-defence, the soldiers fired upon the smugglers, causing serious injuries to two individuals.

The injured were promptly transported to the local Sonamura hospital for medical attention. Tragically, Saheed Miah succumbed to his injuries shortly after the incident. Meanwhile, the other injured party was transferred to a private hospital in Agartala for further treatment.

Providing details of the incident, the senior police official stated, “Between 9 to 9:30 pm last night, an altercation occurred within the jurisdiction of NC Nagar BOP. Allegedly, individuals engaged in smuggling were apprehended by BSF troopers. When the BSF attempted to thwart the smuggling activities, a scuffle ensued, leading to one BSF Jawan sustaining injuries who then fired in self-defence.”

The SP said, “Local residents, on the contrary, claim that the firing was unprovoked. I have visited the site of the incident and engaged with BSF officials and the local community. The district police administration has assured them of a fair investigation. Forensic teams are currently examining the incident,” the SP added.