Sashastra Seema Bal foils human trafficking attempt at India-Nepal border

Troops of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) intercepted a human trafficking attempt along the India-Nepal border in West Bengal. The incident occurred during routine checking at the New Bridge in Panitanki, Siliguri, when the Border Intelligence Team stopped a vehicle traveling from India toward Nepal.

SSB personnel became suspicious after observing a 17-year-old girl traveling alone with an unrelated adult man. Upon interrogation, the man, identified as 32-year-old Rabiul Islam, was found to be attempting to transport the minor across the border to be sold into the sex trade. Investigations revealed the girl had been contacted under the pretense of event-related work in Nepal.

The minor was rescued, and Islam was apprehended. The individual, the vehicle, a mobile phone, and cash were handed over to the Kharibari police station. The case is being investigated under various legal frameworks, including the POCSO Act, 2012.