New Delhi [India]: In a focused crackdown on illegal immigration, Delhi Police have detained 88 illegal Bangladeshi migrants over a 10-day period in the South West District of the national capital, officials confirmed on Monday.
The verification and detention operation, led by District Police teams, was part of a special drive against unauthorized foreign nationals, particularly illegal migrants from Bangladesh. The Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) has been engaged to begin deportation procedures for the detained individuals after completing all legal formalities.
Identification and Deportation Efforts Intensified
According to police, Bangladeshi identity documents, including photocopies of national ID cards, were recovered from several of the detainees. The migrants, who failed to produce valid Indian documents during the verification process, confessed to entering India illegally through various border points.
“In the last 10 days alone, 88 illegal Bangladeshi migrants were detained in South West Delhi. We have begun their deportation in coordination with the FRRO. Many had obtained Aadhaar cards, and we are currently investigating the source of their issuance,” said Surendra Chaudhary, DCP South West.
Ongoing Crackdown Since December 2024
This is not the first such operation. Since December 26, 2024, the South West District Police have detained a total of 142 illegal Bangladeshi migrants. The drive has gained momentum under a broader Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) initiative aimed at identifying and deporting illegal immigrants across India.
To enhance intelligence gathering, multiple police teams were deployed, aided by local informers. These teams conducted operations in areas considered high-risk for illegal settlements, including:
- Sarojini Nagar
- Kishangarh
- SJ Enclave
- Vasant Kunj (South and North)
- Kapashera
- Sagarpur
- Delhi Cantonment
- Palam Village
- Anti-Auto Theft Squad (AATS)
Use of Forged or Acquired Indian Documents Under Investigation
Officials said several detainees were found in possession of forged or improperly acquired Indian documents, including Aadhaar cards, raising concerns over the misuse of official identification systems.
“We are tracing the networks behind the issuance of these Aadhaar cards. The presence of such documents among illegal migrants poses a significant national security risk,” added DCP Chaudhary.
Part of Larger National Effort
Delhi Police stated that this operation is part of a nationwide effort under the Home Ministry’s campaign to identify, trace, and deport illegal migrants.
“The police teams have done commendable work. Their proactive approach and thorough verification efforts ensure that national interests are protected,” said an official release.
The deportation process is expected to continue in coordination with the FRRO, as law enforcement agencies monitor additional areas for potential illegal migrant activity.