Bengaluru: In a special enforcement drive, city police on Friday detained 124 Bangladeshi nationals who were allegedly residing illegally in makeshift sheds within the limits of the Kadugodi and Varthur police stations. The operation was carried out as part of a wider effort to identify and take action against foreign nationals staying in the city without valid documents.
The drive was conducted by four teams from the Central Crime Branch (CCB) following directions from Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh. The operation focused on areas where authorities had received information about suspected illegal settlements.
Police said the detained group includes 48 men, 42 women and 34 children. According to officials, they had constructed temporary shelters and were living there without possessing valid identification or immigration documents.
Special operation by police teams
Authorities stated that the operation was part of a broader initiative to verify the status of foreign nationals residing in the city. Police teams conducted coordinated searches in areas falling under the Kadugodi and Varthur police station limits where the suspected illegal settlements had been identified.
During the operation, officers inspected the temporary sheds and questioned the occupants regarding their nationality, immigration status and supporting documents. As many individuals were unable to produce valid papers, they were taken into custody for further verification.
Officials said such drives are necessary to ensure compliance with immigration laws and to maintain accurate records of foreign nationals living in the country.
Verification and legal procedures
All those detained are currently being questioned by authorities as part of the verification process. Police said a detailed report has been submitted to the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), which is responsible for monitoring the stay of foreign nationals in India.
The FRRO will examine the findings of the police and decide on further action, which may include deportation if the individuals are found to be residing in the country illegally. Officials stated that legal procedures will be followed in accordance with immigration regulations.
Police also noted that children found among the detained group will be handled according to the relevant legal provisions and welfare guidelines.
Wider crackdown across the city
A senior police officer said the special drive has been ongoing for several days across different parts of the city. During this period, around 200 foreign nationals suspected of staying illegally have been taken into custody for verification.
Authorities said the operation will continue in the coming weeks as police attempt to identify additional cases of illegal residence by foreign nationals. The drive includes inspections in areas where such settlements are suspected to exist.
Officials have also urged residents to inform the police if they come across suspicious settlements or individuals staying in their neighbourhoods without proper documentation.
Conclusion
The detention of 124 Bangladeshi nationals highlights the city police’s ongoing efforts to enforce immigration regulations and monitor the presence of foreign nationals in Bengaluru. Authorities have indicated that the verification process will continue and appropriate legal action will be taken after the investigation is completed.