Agartala: One person was shot dead, and another sustained bullet injuries during a clash between BSF (Border Security Force) troopers and suspected smugglers at the Indo-Bangla borders of Sonamura subdivision of Tripura on Wednesday night.
The deceased has been identified as Saheed Miah, while the injured person was identified as Kabil Miah, currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Agartala, a senior official said.
The Tripura smuggling incident unfolded when a BSF patrolling party observed suspicious movement of smugglers near the border area. Upon attempting to intercept them, a confrontation ensued, leading to the BSF troopers opening fire in what they claimed was self-defence.
This resulted in grave injuries to two individuals, who were promptly rushed to a local hospital.
However, Saheed Miah succumbed to his injuries shortly after being shifted to hospital. Meanwhile, Kabil Miah was taken to Agartala.
Providing insights into the incident, the senior police official disclosed that the incident occurred between 9 to 9:30 pm under the jurisdiction of NC Nagar BOP.
Allegedly, BSF personnel encountered resistance from the smugglers, leading to a scuffle during which a BSF Jawan sustained injuries and subsequently fired in self-defence.
However, conflicting reports emerged from locals, who contended that the firing was unprovoked.
A BSF source informed EastMojo that the BSF troopers had fired blank shots to disperse the mob of smugglers. Even a Pump Action Gun was used initially, but the group of smugglers didn’t show any signs of retreat. Instead, they indulged in stone pelting.
Eventually, the BSF Jawan had to open fire at the mob, a BSF official informed EastMojo.
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