Jagatsinghpur: Tension prevails in Jagatsinghpur district after the prime accused in the Bangladeshis-sheltering racket, Sikandar Alam alias Siko, managed to escape despite an intensive three-day search operation.
Siko, who allegedly operated a secret hideout for Bangladeshi infiltrators at Beherampur Basti near Dhanipur under Tarikund police limits, fled with the CCTV hard disk, raising concerns of a deliberate attempt to wipe out crucial evidence.
According to police sources, two special teams have been conducting raids across multiple locations, but the accused remains untraceable. Siko faces grave allegations, including human trafficking and other illegal activities, but his role in harbouring Bangladeshi nationals is being treated as the most serious offence.
Officials fear that the missing CCTV hard disk may have contained sensitive visuals, as investigations have revealed that mafia operatives, influential individuals, and persons involved in immoral trades were frequent visitors to Siko’s house. Several tenants who have also gone underground are suspected to be Bangladeshis, further complicating the probe.
To uncover Siko’s suspected cross-border links, investigators are now analysing four bank accounts in his name. Police are examining the sources of funds, including whether money was routed from foreign nations, individuals, or organisations.
With Siko still absconding, a Lookout Circular (LoC) is likely to be issued soon to prevent his escape from the country.
Meanwhile, a special task force has intensified verification of 25 suspected Bangladeshi nationals currently housed at the Biridi Bagalpur cyclone shelter. The team — comprising the Sub-Collector, Biridi BDO, Tehsildar, and police — is scrutinising Aadhaar cards, voter IDs, land pattas, ration cards and other documents to determine how they obtained government benefits and managed to stay undetected.
