12 Suspected Bangladeshi Nationals Detained in Paradip; Probe Launched

Paradip: Local Police have detained 12 individuals today on suspicion of being Bangladeshi nationals. The group, arriving from Babughat, Kolkata, was taken into custody after local residents reported their suspicious activities.

The Paradip police have initiated an investigation to ascertain whether the detainees are West Bengal residents or have infiltrated from Bangladesh. The move comes amid heightened surveillance across Odisha’s coastal districts, following ongoing unrest in Bangladesh.

Odisha police have increased security measures, particularly in coastal areas, directing marine police to enhance patrols up to five nautical miles from the shore. Additional forces have been deployed to bolster marine police stations.

This development follows a recent incident on August 13, where approximately 300 Odias were allegedly attacked by Bangladeshi infiltrators in West Bengal’s Medinipur district. The victims, returning from treatment at a local healer in Kharika village, were assaulted by a mob that blocked and damaged their vehicles. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s intervention ensured their safe return.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh continues to experience severe unrest, with Hindu communities being targeted and temples vandalised. In Odisha, there is growing opposition to the illegal activities of Bangladeshi nationals residing in the state.