Security forces in West Bengal have achieved a major breakthrough amidst heightened nationwide vigilance ahead of Independence Day. The Special Task Force (STF) of the state police arrested two individuals near the India-Bangladesh border during a targeted operation. Among those taken into custody is Rana Rauf alias Wahab Alam, a resident of Faisalabad in Pakistan. Investigating agencies are currently probing his illegal entry into India, the fraudulent acquisition of Indian identification documents, and his alleged ties to Pakistan's intelligence agency, the ISI.
Late-Night Operation on Jessore Road in Habra
According to official details, the STF initiated a search operation after receiving precise intelligence regarding suspicious movements near the Bongaon border zone in North 24 Parganas district. Acting on this input, STF personnel conducted a late-night sweep on Tuesday in the Habra area, intercepting Rauf along Jessore Road. Preliminary interrogation confirmed his identity as a native of Faisalabad, Pakistan, who had been residing in the state while concealing his original background.
Illegal Entry via Nepal and Fake Document Operations
Investigative findings reveal that Rauf crossed into India illegally through Nepal back in the year 2012. Prior to entering Indian territory, he spent time in Nepal before establishing a base in West Bengal. During his arrest, officers recovered multiple Indian identity documents from his possession, including an Aadhaar card bearing an address located in the Topsia neighborhood of Kolkata.
Accomplice Apprehended in Topsia Kolkata
Connecting key operational links, the STF conducted a parallel raid in Kolkata's Topsia locality on Tuesday, arresting a second suspect. Officials state that this associate maintained direct contact with Rauf and facilitated the procurement of his Indian identification credentials. Authorities have withheld the official identity of this second individual as counter-intelligence inquiries continue.
Probing ISI Links, Border Crossing Attempt, and Pre-August 15 Alert
Investigators are analyzing whether Rauf operated as part of an active network connected to Pakistan's ISI agency. The STF is scrutinizing his past movements, local contacts, and log of activities across India over recent years. Given that Rauf was moving toward the Bongaon border area at the time of his apprehension, officials suspect he was attempting to cross illegally into Bangladesh. With Independence Day celebrations approaching, agencies are actively examining whether the suspects were organizing any potential sabotage or disruptive activities in the region.
