18 Illegal Bangladeshi Nationals, Including 5 Transgenders, Apprehended in Delhi’s Ashok Vihar

New Delhi, India – June 28, 2025:

In a targeted joint operation, the Foreigners Cell of the North-West District Police apprehended 18 illegal Bangladeshi nationals from the Ashok Vihar area of Delhi. The detainees include five individuals who were found disguised as transgender women.

During the combing operation, police recovered seven smartphones with the banned IMO messaging app, allegedly used by the accused to stay in contact with their families in Bangladesh.

The operation involved a detailed verification drive covering approximately 100 jhuggis and 150 lanes. Authorities strategically cordoned off the area to prevent any escape and conducted thorough checks.

One suspicious individual was initially detained and questioned. Although he tried to mislead the police, he later confessed to being a Bangladeshi national living without valid travel documents. His confession led to the arrest of 13 individuals, including 10 adults and 3 children, all found residing illegally under the Foreigners Act, 1946.

Additionally, five individuals presenting themselves as transgender women were also apprehended. Upon verification, it was discovered that they had modified their appearance using wigs, makeup, sarees, bindis, breast padding, and even voice modulation techniques to mimic female behavior. Some admitted to undergoing minor surgeries and hormonal treatments to avoid detection by immigration authorities.

The use of transgender identity as a disguise by foreign nationals was flagged as a serious concern, both for law enforcement efforts and the dignity of the genuine transgender community.

All apprehended individuals have been transferred to the Foreigners Cell for interrogation, documentation, and legal processing.