BSF, BGB agree on coordinated patrolling

The Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) have agreed to conduct coordinated patrols in areas vulnerable to trafficking and smuggling on both sides of the border between the two countries, an official said.

The Border Guards Bangladesh has assured India of full cooperation in operations against those involved in smuggling of fake Indian currency, gold and cattle through the Indo-Bangladesh border.

The development came after a 19-member Bangladeshi delegation headed by BGB Brigadier General D.S.M. Shaheedul Islam held talks with its Indian counterpart led by BSF Inspector General (South Bengal) Sandeep Salunke during a border coordination conference that began on June 8.

While the visiting delegation comprised officials from the BGB, home ministry, department of land revenue, department of narcotics and Joint River Commission, the Indian team had officials from the BSF, home and external affairs ministries.

"Many issues, including attacks on BSF troops by Bangladeshi criminals, smuggling of fake Indian currency, gold and cattle were discussed," said a BSF officer.

"After due deliberations, both border forces agreed to conduct simultaneous co-ordinated patrolling in vulnerable and smuggling-prone areas," he added.

Both forces agreed that field commanders of both the BSF and BGB will meet frequently in the near future and work out details for the implementation of the Land Boundary Agreement signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Dhaka.

The BSF also handed over to the visiting delegation a list of Bangladeshi criminals involved in crimes on the international border.

"Steps will also be taken to educate people on both sides to respect the sanctity of the international border and to hold sports events by involving both the troops and civilians," the BSF officer added.

The Bangladeshi delegation also visited the North Bengal frontier.