Kolkata: A coordinated effort between multiple law enforcement agencies and NGOs resulted in the rescue of a minor girl from Odisha nearly a month after she went missing from New Jalpaiguri (NJP).
The anti-human trafficking unit of BSF North Bengal started the investigation on March 5 following a complaint filed at NJP Police Station. The primary suspect was Shakti Prasad Panda, who was traced to Balasore in Odisha. In a joint operation involving NJP Police, Balasore Sadar Police, and NGOs Shakti Vahini and Handicapped Welfare Institute, the girl was rescued from Tirtol, Odisha, on March 14. She was placed in a local shelter home for temporary protection.
"This rescue operation demonstrates the importance of inter-state cooperation in combating human trafficking," said a BSF spokesperson, adding, "The swift coordination between multiple agencies was crucial to the operation's success.
"
On March 23, the girl was handed over to NJP Police and presented before the Child Welfare Committee. Following mandatory medical examination, court proceedings, and submission of a social investigation report, she was reunited with her guardian on April 7.
The investigation into the suspect's involvement continues, with authorities preparing to file formal charges.