Kochi, June 8: In a significant operation against illegal immigration networks, central agencies have arrested a suspected member of a syndicate along with nine Bangladeshi nationals in Kottarakkara, Kollam district, Kerala.
The operation was conducted by the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) and Military Intelligence as part of an ongoing investigation into the infiltration of foreign nationals and the use of fake identity documents in the state. The main accused has been identified as Mamata Begum, a resident of Nishanbaria in the Chautabuniya area of Bagerhat district, Bangladesh.
Investigators revealed that Mamata Begum played a crucial role in facilitating the illegal entry and settlement of Bangladeshi nationals in various parts of Kerala. Initial inquiries suggest that the nine arrested Bangladeshis were involved in scrap business operations in Kottarakkara, which had been running under Begum’s supervision for the past three months.
Agencies suspect that Begum recently brought 36 Bangladeshi nationals to Kerala, many of whom were engaged in scrap collection and trade activities managed by her network. Officials noted that Begum had been traveling between Bangladesh and India since childhood, using routes through the West Bengal border for the past 15 years.
Investigators also alleged that she had obtained Indian identity documents, including voter IDs and ration cards, and subsequently opened several scrap shops in Karunagappally and other areas of Kollam district.
There are suspicions that Begum purchased three auto-rickshaws for her business operations. During the search, agencies recovered numerous documents, including lease agreements, vehicle ownership records, and other papers related to her business.
Identity-related documents used by the arrested individuals were also found. The agencies seized Aadhaar cards from the nine detained Bangladeshi nationals. While most of the documents are under investigation, officials discovered that two of the recovered Aadhaar cards were genuine.
Bangladeshi national identity cards were also confiscated from the accused. Sources indicate that the role of some local accomplices is also under scrutiny. Investigators are probing allegations that a politician and certain government officials may have assisted Begum in obtaining voter IDs and ration cards. A ‘Akshay Centre’ is also under investigation due to its suspected involvement in facilitating identity-related services.
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