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

In a significant security operation, Assam police have arrested 14 terrorists associated with 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 Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs has emphasized the importance of border fencing and surveillance technologies to combat illegal migration and cross-border terrorism. As the government seeks to balance security with economic growth in the Northeastern states, ongoing engagement with Bangladesh remains crucial for addressing strategic concerns and fostering stability in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 19, 2025, 20:55 IST

Significant Arrests in Assam

New Delhi, Dec 19: Assam police, in collaboration with various security agencies, have apprehended 14 individuals associated with the Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), a faction of Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent, since December 2024, as reported by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The MEA highlighted that the Indian government is adopting a thorough strategy to address cross-border security challenges with Bangladesh, working closely with the Northeastern states, border security forces, and central investigative bodies.

According to the MEA, the coordinated efforts have led to the detention of several illegal Bangladeshi nationals and the seizure of approximately 12,300 kg of narcotics, attributed to heightened security measures at the borders in recent months.

This statement from the ministry gains importance amid the recent decline in the internal security situation in Bangladesh.

During a briefing to a Parliamentary Committee on External Affairs regarding the 'Future of India-Bangladesh Relationship', MEA officials acknowledged the pressing need to enhance border security due to the deteriorating conditions.

"Border fencing has become increasingly crucial for us. We are committed to completing the fencing along the Bangladesh border," they stated.

Out of the total 4,096 km India-Bangladesh border, around 3,232 km is currently fenced. Approximately 689 km remains unfenced, with 174 km being riverine areas where fencing is not feasible. The remaining sections require land acquisition for fencing, which poses challenges due to population density in those regions.

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, as per the MEA.

"Thus, ongoing engagement at the government level is essential for safeguarding our security interests and addressing strategic concerns with the Bangladeshi government," an official remarked.

When discussing the primary challenges in managing the India-Bangladesh border, the Ministry pointed out illegal migration, smuggling, cross-border terrorism, and border disputes as significant issues, exacerbated by challenging terrain and political sensitivities.

"The mountainous and riverine geography of the India-Bangladesh border complicates management efforts. The lack of job opportunities in border communities makes them susceptible to crimes such as smuggling and illegal migration. These issues facilitate the movement of anti-social elements, which the Border Security Force (BSF) is actively working to control through increased vigilance," the ministry explained.

The ministry also mentioned the implementation of advanced fencing and surveillance technologies, including drones, motion sensors, cameras, and satellite monitoring, which will enhance the BSF's capability to oversee extensive border sections remotely and detect illegal crossings or suspicious activities, particularly in areas where physical patrols are difficult.

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 implications of the current state of India-Bangladesh relations on the Northeast region, the Ministry acknowledged the security concerns for India's Northeastern states due to their geographical proximity and existing cross-border connections and trade with Bangladesh.

"While ensuring 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 with the Northeastern states are discussed with Bangladesh through high-level engagements and relevant bilateral mechanisms," the ministry concluded.