BGB tightens border security in Cumilla, Feni, and Brahmanbaria to curb rawhide smuggling, push-ins

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has issued an alert to prevent smuggling of raw animal hides to India through the borders of Cumilla, Feni, and Brahmanbaria.

The paramilitary force has also taken a strict stance to stop illegal push-ins of Indian nationals into Bangladesh.

Sector Commander Colonel Rezaul Kabir issued this warning this morning (6 June) at the Bibirbazar BGB camp on the border of Cumilla Sadar upazila. 

Lieutenant Colonel Mir Ali Ejaz, commanding officer of Cumilla 10 BGB, was also present at the time.

"BGB was most vigilant in preventing cattle smuggling this year. In the same way, BGB will remain on alert to prevent rawhide smuggling as well. To prevent leather smuggling after sacrificing animals, BGB has increased intelligence activities alongside regular patrol forces," Rezaul told reporters. 

The Cumilla sector of BGB covers 327 kilometres of border from Habiganj to Feni district. The Cumilla sector commander informed that 25 BGB Battalion, 60 BGB Battalion, 10 BGB Battalion, and 4 BGB Battalion under the Cumilla sector have been alerted. 

"Since the border is very close to the Dhaka-Chattogram highway and there is a tendency to smuggle rawhides to India through this region, precautionary measures have been taken in advance this time," he added.

The BGB's 25 Battalion has already increased surveillance along sensitive areas of the border, particularly in Akhaura and Bijoynagar upazilas, and parts of Madhabpur in Habiganj.

Lieutenant Colonel Jabbar Ahmed, commanding officer of the 25 Battalion, said, "BGB is fully alert to prevent any form of criminal activity along the border. As per higher directives, we have enhanced our security measures to stop the smuggling of sacrificial animal hides. No one will be allowed to smuggle hides, drugs or carry out illegal push-ins through the border."

The Brahmanbaria district shares a 73-kilometre border with India, of which 31 kilometres fall under the jurisdiction of BGB's 25 Battalion, and the remaining 42 kilometres under the 60 Battalion. The three upazilas of Kasba, Akhaura and Bijoynagar are situated along this border and are known hotspots for cross-border smuggling.

Historically, criminal syndicates become more active during Eid-ul-Adha, attempting to smuggle cattle hides into India for profit. In response, BGB has significantly ramped up its patrol operations across the region.

"No attempt to smuggle hides or engage in other border crimes will be tolerated," added Lt Col Jabbar.

Residents of border-adjacent areas have also been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.