Bhubaneswar, Nov 18: In a significant operation, Bhadrak police have detained 17 individuals suspected to be Bangladeshi nationals at the Bhadrak bus stand. The group was intercepted late at night from the night shelter near the new bus stand after police personnel noticed their suspicious behaviour and unusual conversations. When questioned, the detainees claimed to be residents of Murshidabad district in Kolkata, prompting the authorities to initiate a detailed verification process.

Police are currently examining their Aadhaar cards and other documents to confirm their identities and ascertain whether the papers presented are genuine. Bhadrak Superintendent of Police Manoj Rout confirmed the detentions and stated that a thorough investigation is underway. Officers are also probing whether the group has any links to illegal activities or organisations operating within or outside the state.

The development comes at a time when the state government has adopted a strict stance on infiltration. The Law Minister recently highlighted that the state is working closely with the central government to identify, verify and, if required, deport illegal infiltrators. Authorities have assured that all due procedures will be followed as the inquiry proceeds.

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