17 Bangladeshis arrested in Maharashtra

17 Bangladeshi nationals, including 14 men and three women, have been arrested in the Indian state of Maharashtra for entering India without permission and residing in the country without valid documents, India Today reported.

The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), in coordination with local police, made the arrests after raids were conducted in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, and Nashik. Based on a tip off, the operation, launched to identify and act against illegal immigrants in the state.

“The ATS carried out the operation in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane and Nashik cities this week with the help of local police. At least 17 Bangladeshi nationals, comprising 14 males and three females, were arrested for entering India without permission and staying in the country without valid documents,” an official said.

Investigations revealed that people used forged documents, such as Aadhaar and PAN cards, to establish fake identities and remain in the country undetected.

At least 10 cases have been registered under the Foreigners Act, 1946; Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1950; and Passport Act, 1967.

Further investigations are underway at the respective police stations.