Udupi: In a decisive action against illegal immigration, the Udupi principal senior civil judge and Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) court has sentenced ten Bangladeshi nationals to two years’ imprisonment, along with a fine of ₹10,000 each, for unlawfully entering and residing in India using forged identification documents. The verdict, delivered on December 8, marks a significant step in the district’s efforts to curb unauthorised entry and identity fraud.
Suspicious movement leads to arrests
The case traces back to October 11, 2024, when PSI Praveen Kumar R of the Malpe police station was on routine patrol duty near the Vadabandeshwara Bus Stand. During his rounds, he noticed seven individuals moving suspiciously while carrying luggage. Their behaviour raised concerns, prompting the officer to question them about their identity and purpose of stay.
On questioning, the group failed to produce any valid documents permitting their residence in India. Their inability to provide legitimate identification immediately alerted the police to a potential case of illegal immigration.
Further enquiries revealed that the individuals had allegedly crossed into India illegally from Bangladesh and had been residing in Hoode, in Paduthonse village, for an unspecified period. Shockingly, they were reportedly using forged Aadhaar cards to conceal their identities and continue their stay.
Investigation uncovers larger network
Following the initial arrests, the Malpe police registered a case under Crime No. 138/2025. The charges included various sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Foreigners Act, and the Aadhaar Act, all invoking serious penalties for illegal entry, unlawful residence, and use of forged identification documents.
As the investigation progressed, the police managed to apprehend three more Bangladeshi nationals linked to the same network of illegal migrants. This brought the total number of accused to ten. Police sources indicated that the group had been living in the district for some time, integrating into local areas through false identities.
The Malpe police conducted a thorough probe, gathering evidence of illegal entry, residence records, and the forged Aadhaar cards allegedly used by the accused. Officers also examined possible support systems or facilitators who may have aided the migrants, though no additional arrests were confirmed at that stage.
Trial concludes with conviction
Upon completion of the investigation, a detailed chargesheet was filed before the court, outlining the offences and substantiating evidence against all ten accused. The trial proceeded in the Udupi CJM court, where the prosecution presented evidence on how the individuals had entered the country without valid travel documents and had used fraudulent Aadhaar cards to evade detection.
On December 8, the court pronounced all ten individuals guilty. Each was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment and ordered to pay a fine of ₹10,000. In the absence of payment, additional imprisonment could apply as per legal procedures.
Legal experts noted that such punishments act as a deterrent to illegal immigrants attempting to enter the country with forged papers and to those involved in the creation or distribution of fake identity cards.
Police reinforce commitment to security
Following the verdict, police officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining strict vigilance against illegal immigration in Udupi district. Authorities emphasised that checks at transit points, coastal zones, and residential localities would continue to be intensified to identify unauthorised entrants.
Officers also cautioned that action would be taken against individuals or groups involved in producing or facilitating forged identification documents. They stated that illegal migration poses a security concern and that systematic efforts are in place to ensure that such incidents are swiftly identified and dealt with under the law.
The police urged the public to report any suspicious activity or individuals residing without proper documentation, assuring that their identity would be protected.
Conclusion
The sentencing of the ten Bangladeshi nationals marks a significant legal outcome and sends a strong message regarding the consequences of illegal entry and document fraud. With continued vigilance, the district authorities aim to prevent similar cases and safeguard the integrity of identification systems and local security.