Assam Police Arrests 14 Terrorists Linked to Al Qaeda's Ansarullah Bangla Team

In a significant security operation, Assam police have arrested 14 terrorists connected to the Ansarullah Bangla Team, a faction of Al Qaeda. This action is part of India's broader strategy to enhance border security with Bangladesh, especially in light of recent internal security challenges in the neighboring country. The Ministry of External Affairs has emphasized the importance of border fencing and increased surveillance to combat illegal migration and cross-border terrorism. As the situation evolves, the Indian government remains committed to fostering economic growth in the Northeastern states while ensuring robust security measures are in place.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 19, 2025, 09:47 IST

Significant Arrests in Assam

On December 19, New Delhi reported that Assam police, in collaboration with various security agencies, have apprehended 14 individuals associated with the Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), a faction of Al Qaeda operating in the Indian Subcontinent, since December 2024.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized that India is adopting a thorough strategy to tackle cross-border security challenges with Bangladesh, working closely with the Northeastern states, border security forces, and law enforcement agencies.

The MEA highlighted that the arrests of the 14 ABT members were part of these coordinated efforts.

Additionally, several illegal Bangladeshi nationals have been detained, and approximately 12,300 kg of narcotics have been confiscated due to heightened security measures at the borders in recent months.

This statement from the MEA gains importance amid the worsening internal security conditions in Bangladesh.

During a briefing to a Parliamentary Committee on External Affairs regarding the future of India-Bangladesh relations, MEA officials acknowledged the urgent need to enhance border security in light of the deteriorating situation.

They stated, 'Border fencing has become increasingly critical for us. We are committed to completing the border fencing with Bangladesh.'

Out of the 4,096 km India-Bangladesh border, around 3,232 km is currently fenced, leaving about 689 km to be secured. However, 174 km of this area is riverine, making it impractical to fence. The remaining 690 km requires land acquisition for fencing, which is complicated by the presence of populated areas.

The Indian government understands that the stability and prosperity of Bangladesh are directly linked to the security and socio-economic progress of the Northeastern states.

Thus, ongoing government-to-government engagement is essential for India to safeguard its security interests and address strategic concerns with Bangladesh effectively.

The Ministry also pointed out that illegal migration, smuggling, cross-border terrorism, and border disputes are significant challenges, exacerbated by the region's difficult terrain and political sensitivities.

The mountainous and riverine geography of the India-Bangladesh border complicates management efforts, while limited employment opportunities in border communities lead to increased crime rates, including smuggling and illegal migration. These issues facilitate the movement of anti-social elements, which the Border Security Force (BSF) is actively working to control.

The ministry noted that enhanced fencing and surveillance technologies, including drones, motion sensors, cameras, and satellite monitoring, are being implemented to improve the BSF's capability to oversee extensive border sections remotely and detect illegal crossings or suspicious activities, particularly in hard-to-patrol areas.

The security of the Northeastern states is closely tied to developments along the Bangladesh border, according to the ministry.

In response to inquiries about the impact of current India-Bangladesh relations on the Northeast, the Ministry acknowledged the security implications for these states due to their geographical proximity and existing cross-border connections and trade with Bangladesh.

While prioritizing security, the government is also focused on promoting economic development in the Northeastern region and has taken steps to improve connectivity between these states and the rest of India, as well as with the broader region. Local developments are monitored closely, and bilateral issues related to security, border management, trade, and connectivity are discussed with Bangladesh through high-level engagements and relevant institutional mechanisms.