A confrontation occurred between local residents and members of India’s Border Security Force (BSF) in the Bonchouki border area of Hatibandha upazila, Lalmonirhat, at about 4pm on Tuesday, August 25. Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) recovered two shotguns and a walkie-talkie that BSF personnel allegedly left behind during the incident. Tension has persisted in the border area since the confrontation.

Local residents alleged that several BSF members crossed the border into Bangladesh and assaulted farmers. An argument followed between residents and the BSF personnel, escalating into a scuffle. Locals said the BSF members went back toward India after more Bangladeshis gathered at the border, leaving the two shotguns and walkie-talkie behind.

Lieutenant Colonel Mehdi Imam, commander of Lalmonirhat 15 BGB Battalion, arrived at the scene after receiving information about the incident. The recovered items were taken into BGB custody. He said discussions with the BSF were under way, and further information would be provided after a commander-level discussion and a flag meeting. Work on a press release regarding the Bonchouki BOP incident was also ongoing.