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Bangladesh border guards apprehend Somali national amid rising unauthorized crossings in South Asia
Mogadishu (HOL) — A Somali man was arrested by border guards in Bangladesh for illegally crossing into the country from India. Officials say there has been a rise in unauthorized border crossings in the region.
The man, identified as Abdiwali Mohammed Ali, was caught early Saturday by a patrol unit near the Nijkalika Border Outpost in Feni district’s Parshuram sub-district. Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) officials say he was attempting to enter the country without legal documents.
After his arrest, the BGB handed Ali over to the Parshuram Model Police Station. He is facing charges under Bangladesh’s Foreigners Act of 1946, specifically sections 3(2)(b), 13, and 14. Authorities also confiscated some materials from him at the time of his arrest.
Feni BGB Commander Lt. Col. Mohammad Mosharraf Hossain confirmed the arrest and said that border security efforts remain strong. The BGB is actively working to prevent illegal crossings, combat smuggling, and ensure safety along the border.
Ali’s arrest is part of a broader trend. Just a few days earlier, on March 19, BGB patrol teams arrested three other foreign nationals for illegally entering Bangladesh. These included a Nigerian man, a Sudanese woman, and a Zambian citizen. They were caught at the same section of the border where Ali was apprehended.
Authorities have increased security in the Parshuram border zone. Although this area is usually quieter compared to other entry points, Bangladesh has intensified patrols in response to shifting migration trends in South Asia. More people from different countries are attempting to cross the borders without proper authorization, leading to stricter enforcement by border guards.
Illegal border crossings are a growing concern in Bangladesh. Officials believe people are using these routes due to various reasons, such as escaping difficult conditions in their home countries, seeking better opportunities, or trying to reach other destinations through Bangladesh.
In recent years, Bangladesh has improved its border control measures. Surveillance technology, stricter patrols, and better coordination with neighboring countries are being used to prevent unauthorized entries. Despite these efforts, some individuals still attempt to cross the borders illegally, often risking arrest and legal action.
The Foreigners Act of 1946, under which Ali has been charged, is a law that regulates the entry, stay, and departure of foreign nationals in Bangladesh. Those found guilty under this law may face deportation, fines, or imprisonment, depending on the severity of their violations.
The BGB continues to work with other security forces to ensure border safety. Officials encourage people to follow legal immigration processes to avoid legal troubles and ensure their safety while traveling.
Authorities have not yet provided details on what will happen next with Ali or the three other arrested foreigners. However, it is likely that legal proceedings will follow, and the individuals may face deportation or other penalties.
The increase in unauthorized border crossings highlights the need for international cooperation in managing migration. Governments in the region are working on strategies to address illegal entries while ensuring humanitarian concerns are taken into account.
For now, Bangladeshi border forces remain vigilant, working to prevent further incidents and maintain security along their borders.