PHULBARI, KURIGRAM, June 2: Members of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have earned widespread appreciation from residents for conducting regular anti-drug check-posts and surveillance operations in the border areas of Balarhat and Shimulbari in Kurigram's Phulbari Upazila.
According to local sources, intensified BGB activities in border-adjacent areas, including Balarhat, Naodanga Bakultala Bazar, Paschim Phulmati Schoolpara, Gorokmondol Bridge area, BDR Bazar, Shimulbari, Phulbari Sadar and Kashipur Union, have brought relief to residents by curbing drug trafficking, illegal border crossings and other criminal activities.
Regular patrols and check-posts in frontier localities such as Gangahat, Ajoyatari, Kashiabari, Anantapur, Balabari and Berakuti Bazar have significantly reduced the movement of drug-dealers and smugglers, locals said. They noted that the BGB's strict monitoring has not only improved law and order in the border region but has also enhanced public safety.
During a visit to Balarhat and nearby border areas on Monday afternoon, BGB personnel were seen operating round-the-clock check-posts and conducting searches of vehicles and suspicious individuals. The operations are part of an ongoing drive against narcotics, smuggled goods and other border-related crimes.
Local residents Abdul Majid Manik and Sanju Mia said, members of the Balarhat, Shimulbari and Gorokmondol BGB camps have maintained heightened vigilance, resulting in a noticeable decline in the activities of drug users and traffickers in Balarhat, Naodanga, Paschim Phulmati and Gorokmondol areas.
They said regular check-posts have made it safer for people to travel and have helped protect young people from the harmful effects of drug abuse. The residents added that the BGB personnel deserve recognition for their efforts.
Abdul Hanif Sarkar, Principal of Naodanga School and College, described the initiative as highly commendable, saying it contributes not only to border security but also to building a drug-free society.
"The BGB's operations are playing an effective role in protecting society and the younger generation from the devastating impact of drugs," he said, urging authorities to continue anti-drug check-posts and special drives in the public interest.
Subedar Aminul Islam, Commander of the Balarhat Camp under the 15 BGB Battalion in Lalmonirhat, said that in line with directives from higher authorities, the force has been conducting regular special operations and check-post activities to ensure border security and prevent drug trafficking and smuggling.
He said the BGB remains vigilant in suppressing crime, ensuring public safety and working towards a drug-free society in border areas. He added that such operations would be further strengthened in the future to serve the public interest.
