Bihar on High Alert: Infiltration of Jaish-e-Mohammed Terrorists via Nepal Border

Bihar has been placed on high alert following intelligence reports indicating that three Pakistani terrorists, affiliated with the Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), have infiltrated the state through the porous India-Nepal border. The suspects—Hasnain Ali from Rawalpindi, Adil Hussain from Umerkot, and Mohammad Usman from Bahawalpur—reportedly entered Nepal in early August and crossed into Bihar on August 15, coinciding with India's 79th Independence Day celebrations.

Bihar is on high alert after intelligence has flagged infiltration of three JeM terrorists from Pakistan via Nepal | LiveMint

Details of the Infiltration

According to Bihar Police, the three suspects have been identified as Hasnain Ali from Rawalpindi, Adil Hussain from Umerkot, and Mohammad Usman from Bahawalpur, all residents of Pakistan. They are believed to have entered Nepal during the first week of August before making their way into Bihar. Upon receiving the intelligence alert, the Bihar Police issued a statewide alert, disseminating the suspects' names, photographs, and passport details to border districts.

Security Measures and Response

Bihar's Director General of Police, Vinay Kumar, confirmed the heightened security measures, stating that all district police units and various specialized wings have been instructed to maintain "extraordinary" vigilance. This includes intensified area domination patrolling and search operations to preempt any potential threats from anti-national elements. Additionally, the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has been alerted, and security at airports and railway stations has been strengthened.

The infiltration occurs just ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Bihar, a period marked by increased political activity and the presence of high-profile politicians in the state. Authorities are closely monitoring local-level intelligence to detect any suspicious activities.

Vulnerabilities and Border Concerns

The Bihar-Nepal border has been identified as a potential vulnerability due to its porous nature, facilitating the movement of individuals across the international boundary. This incident is not the first of its kind; previous reports have highlighted similar concerns regarding the ease with which militants can infiltrate the region.

Enhanced Vigilance at Key Locations

In response to the threat, security has been bolstered at vital institutions and tourist destinations, including the Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Bodh Gaya, the Viswa Shanti Stupa in Rajgir, and the Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji in Patna Sahib. Additionally, airports across the state have increased their security protocols to safeguard against potential threats.

Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local law enforcement agencies. The situation is being closely monitored, and further updates will be provided as necessary.

(Sources: LiveMint, OpIndia, Hindustan Times)