Khapribari, May 29: The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) arrested two Thai citizens at the Indo-Nepal border near Panitanki for attempting to cross into Nepal using forged exit seals. The women, identified as Pimchanoka Ketla and Chintara Buddafong, were intercepted while traveling in a four-wheeler at the border checkpoint.
SSB officials reported that during routine document verification, suspicions arose over the exit seals on their visas. Subsequent checks with immigration authorities confirmed the seals were fake, leading to their immediate arrest.
Investigations revealed that a local racket was assisting foreign nationals in crossing the border illegally in exchange for large sums of money. The racket allegedly involved drivers and touts who facilitated such crossings.
The arrested women were handed over to Khapribari police, and authorities have launched a probe to identify other members of the network. Several suspects have already been traced, including the driver of the vehicle.
Officials noted that despite holding valid Indian visas, the Thai nationals resorted to forged exit seals, raising questions about their intent and possible links to organized illegal activities. The case has been registered, and the women are scheduled to be produced before the Siliguri Sub-Divisional Court.
The incident underscores growing concerns about cross-border infiltration and illegal activities along the Indo-Nepal border, prompting heightened vigilance by security forces.
