The Ahmedabad crime branch has deported 16 Bangladeshi nationals and plans to deport 36 more by the end of March, a senior police official stated. Since July 2024, Gujarat authorities have detained 52 suspected Bangladeshi nationals, including two minors. In response, the special branch collaborated with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Bangladesh High Commission to facilitate their deportations.

Deportation Process

Bharat Patel, Assistant Commissioner of Police, explained, “Once their Bangladeshi citizenship was confirmed, authorities began deportation proceedings.” Consequently, the first group of 16 deported individuals, including one minor, was sent back to Bangladesh on February 1.

Remaining Detainees

Currently, 36 more detainees, including one minor, are being held in a detention center in Sardar Nagar. These detainees are expected to be deported by March, Patel added.

Fake Documents and Human Trafficking

The immigrants were found with fake Indian documents, including fake Aadhar cards. Additionally, authorities uncovered a human trafficking ring involving Bangladeshi women and minor girls being trafficked for prostitution.

“Some were involved in human trafficking and forced labor, exploited by agents. Furthermore, the money generated from these activities was sent to Bangladesh under the guise of trade. Many of the illegal immigrants were also involved in the scrap business and food vending,” said an officer.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities are now investigating the trafficking network and the financial transactions tied to these illegal activities. Patel mentioned, “Central agencies are looking into the financial transactions to track the movement of funds.”