The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) successfully intercepted a major smuggling operation in Supaul district, Bihar, seizing 1,380 bottles of Nepali liquor being transported illegally through the Kosi River. The operation took place on Wednesday near the Narpatpatti border checkpoint under Bhaptiyahi police station jurisdiction. Acting on specific intelligence about cross-border smuggling activity, the 45th Battalion SSB deployed a patrol team to the suspected location. When security forces approached, a smuggler loading the contraband jumped into the river and escaped, leaving behind the illegal cargo. The seized alcohol, totaling approximately 414 liters, was packed in 15 bags. This successful operation highlights the increased vigilance along the Nepal-India border ahead of the Bihar assembly elections. The SSB has been maintaining heightened security to prevent illegal activities that could disrupt the peaceful conduct of elections. Commandant Gaurav Singh emphasized that security forces remain alert to stop all forms of illegal cross-border trade. The seized liquor and the boat used in the smuggling attempt have been handed over to the local Bhaptiyahi police station for further legal proceedings. This incident has sent a strong message to smugglers operating along the porous river border, demonstrating that security forces are actively monitoring all potential routes for illegal trade. The operation was conducted after gathering intelligence about smuggling activities near spot number 2270 along the Kosi River route.
Intelligence-Based Operation Targets River Route
The SSB's 45th Battalion received specific information that smugglers were using the Kosi River to transport prohibited goods from Nepal into Indian territory. The intelligence indicated activity near spot number 2270 close to the Narpatpatti border checkpoint. Acting swiftly on this tip-off, Commandant Gaurav Singh authorized a patrol operation. Assistant Sub-Inspector Bharat Bhushan led the team to the identified location. The patrol unit established covert surveillance at the suspected smuggling point. Security personnel remained hidden while monitoring the river crossing. After some time, they observed a boat approaching the riverbank carrying suspicious cargo. As the vessel reached the shore, a man began unloading bags from the boat. However, upon noticing the security forces, the smuggler immediately abandoned his cargo and jumped into the Kosi River to escape arrest. Despite efforts to apprehend him, the individual managed to flee using the river's cover. The quick-thinking SSB personnel then secured the boat and began examining its contents.
Massive Haul of Illegal Alcohol Recovered
Following the smuggler's escape, SSB jawans conducted a thorough search of the abandoned boat and its cargo. The search revealed 15 bags containing bottles of Nepali liquor. Upon careful counting and documentation, authorities discovered exactly 1,380 bottles of foreign alcohol. The total quantity seized amounted to approximately 414 liters of prohibited liquor. This represents a significant interception of illegal alcohol that was destined for distribution in Bihar, where prohibition laws are in effect. The liquor had been carefully packed to avoid detection during the river crossing. All seized items, including the boat used in the smuggling operation, were properly documented by the SSB team. The contraband was then officially handed over to Bhaptiyahi police station in Supaul district for registration of a formal case. Local police will now investigate the smuggling network and attempt to identify the individuals involved in this cross-border illegal trade. The recovered liquor will be held as evidence in the criminal proceedings that will follow.
Enhanced Border Security Before Elections
The successful operation comes as part of heightened security measures implemented ahead of the Bihar assembly elections. The SSB has intensified patrolling along the Nepal-India border to ensure peaceful and fair polling. Commandant Gaurav Singh stated that security forces remain committed to preventing any illegal activities that could disturb the electoral process. The Kosi River, which forms a natural boundary between Nepal and parts of Bihar, has historically been used by smugglers due to its multiple crossing points. The SSB has been maintaining strict vigilance to curb such unlawful border crossings. Besides liquor smuggling, security forces are also watching for other forms of illegal trade and movement of contraband. The focus has been on identifying and stopping any activities that could potentially influence or disrupt the upcoming elections. This seizure demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-based operations and coordinated efforts between different security agencies. The SSB's proactive approach has created significant challenges for smuggling networks operating along the porous river border between the two countries.
Continued Crackdown on Illegal Cross-Border Trade
Commandant Gaurav Singh emphasized that the SSB will continue its strict surveillance of all illegal activities along the border areas. He assured that stringent action would be taken against anyone found involved in smuggling or other unlawful cross-border operations. The Wednesday operation has sent a strong deterrent message to smuggling networks that have been exploiting the river route. Security forces are now monitoring all potential crossing points along the Kosi River more carefully. The SSB has deployed multiple patrol teams at strategic locations to prevent similar smuggling attempts. This incident has created panic among smugglers who have been active in the region. With elections approaching, authorities are determined to maintain law and order along the international border. The successful interception also highlights the challenges faced by security forces in monitoring the long and porous river boundary. Despite these challenges, the SSB remains committed to stopping illegal trade and ensuring that border security is not compromised. The force continues to gather intelligence about smuggling networks and plans more such operations in the coming days.
Source: Link