AHMEDABAD: In the wake of the recent terror attack in Kashmir, Gujarat Police launched a massive operation targeting illegal Bangladeshi residents across the state. In a single night, Ahmedabad Police arrested 890 illegal Bangladeshis, while Surat Police apprehended 134.
State authorities confirmed that among those detained, four individuals had links to criminal activities, with two suspected of being operatives in Al-Qaeda sleeper cells. Gujarat Director General of Police Vikas Sahay said the suspects are currently being interrogated at the Joint Interrogation Centre.
The crackdown aimed to curb illegal infiltration that could pose security risks. Minister of State for Home Affairs Harsh Sanghavi, during a video conference with police officials from various districts, directed them to intensify operations and monitor illegal residents closely. He also warned illegal Bangladeshi nationals to voluntarily surrender at local police stations within two days or face strict action. Authorities have been instructed to also take action against those sheltering illegal immigrants.
Police revealed that many of those arrested had been living in Gujarat and other states using fake documents, allegedly procured from Bengal. Investigations into the fake document networks are currently underway.
The DGP added that after completing legal formalities, all illegal residents will be deported to Bangladesh. The ongoing probe is also focusing on exposing any terror links, particularly related to the two individuals suspected of working for Al-Qaeda.
Gujarat Police said that similar operations will continue to safeguard state security.
