Ramban, Aug 3: Police on Sunday detained 17 suspected Bangladeshi nationals, including women and children, in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district after they allegedly failed to produce valid identity and travel documents during a security check.

The group was intercepted near Banihal during routine security checks being conducted in view of the ongoing Amarnath Yatra. According to official sources, they were travelling in two vehicles when they were stopped for verification.

Officials said police personnel became suspicious after encountering a language barrier while interacting with the occupants. During preliminary questioning, the individuals were unable to satisfactorily establish their identities, leading to their detention for further verification.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the group may have entered India illegally through the Assam border before travelling towards Kashmir. However, officials clarified that these claims are still under verification as part of the ongoing probe.

An FIR has been registered at Police Station Banihal under Sections 3 and 21 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.

The detained group comprises 17 people, including women and young children. Authorities are investigating the purpose of their journey to Kashmir, their route of entry into the country, and whether any organised network facilitated their travel.

Further investigation is underway.