Without valid documents, 17 suspected Bangladeshi nationals held in Ramban

RAMBAN — Seventeen suspected Bangladeshi nationals, including women and children, were detained by police in Ramban district while travelling towards Kashmir after they allegedly failed to produce valid travel and identity documents during a security check, official sources said.

The group was intercepted near Banihal during routine checking carried out in connection with the ongoing Amarnath Yatra. According to police sources, the individuals were travelling in two vehicles when they came under scrutiny.

Sources told the news agency KNT that police personnel became suspicious after they were unable to communicate with the occupants due to a language barrier. During preliminary questioning, the group failed to satisfactorily establish their identity, prompting their detention for further verification.

Initial investigation, according to police sources, suggests that the detained persons had allegedly entered India illegally through the Assam border before travelling towards Kashmir. However, officials said the claims are being verified as part of the investigation.

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Following the detention, police registered an FIR at Police Station Banihal under Sections 3 and 21 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.

Police sources said the group comprises 17 persons, including women and small children. The purpose of their journey to Kashmir and other aspects related to their travel are being investigated.

Officials said further investigation is in progress to ascertain their identity, route of entry into the country and any possible network involved.