Agartala, Nov 3: Eight persons have been arrested for allegedly attacking Border Security Force (BSF) personnel during a violent clash in Tripura's Sepahijala district, police said on Tuesday.
The incident took place on November 2 in Ashabari area under Boxanagar, falling within the jurisdiction of Kalamchoura police station, when BSF personnel from the 49th Battalion were chasing suspected smugglers in the area.
During the operation, the BSF personnel detained a local youth, identified as Hefzur Rahman, triggering protests among residents, who alleged that he had been assaulted by the border guards while in custody.
Agitated locals subsequently blocked a road, demanding an explanation from the BSF personnel over the detention and alleged assault of the youth.
The situation turned tense when a BSF vehicle reached the spot. A heated altercation reportedly broke out between the security personnel and local residents, with some alleged smugglers also joining the confrontation.
The argument soon escalated into a violent clash, during which a group of people allegedly attacked the BSF personnel and their vehicle, sources said.
Following the incident, police launched an investigation and detained several persons in connection with the attack.
"Eight persons have been arrested in connection with the attack on BSF personnel. Further investigation is underway," a police source said.
The identities of the arrested persons were not immediately available.
Police are investigating the circumstances that led to the confrontation, including the allegations of assault against the detained youth and the involvement of suspected smugglers in the incident.
The incident has raised concerns over tensions between local residents and border security personnel in the area, which has witnessed suspected smuggling activities.
Further details are awaited.
