US Nationals from California Detained in Bihar
Incident Overview
In Madhubani, Bihar, two US nationals from Woodland, California, were detained for attempting to cross into Nepal without valid travel documents. The Madhubani Police reported that the individuals were intercepted by the 48th Battalion of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) near the BOP Betaunha check post.
Details of the Arrest
The arrested individuals, Craig Alan Moore (64) and Munni Sah (52), were accompanied by two locals, Sonu Kumar Gupta and Ram Hriday Singh, who provided logistical support. The group was stopped approximately 800 meters from the Indo-Nepal border.
Background Information
During interrogation by the SSB, Intelligence Bureau, and Bihar Police, it was revealed that the US nationals arrived in Kathmandu via New Delhi on October 30. They entered India illegally to meet relatives and participate in Chhath Puja. Despite having a valid Nepal visa, their entry into India violated immigration rules.
Official Statement
Harendra Singh, Acting Commandant of the 48th Battalion SSB, urged citizens to use authorized routes for border crossing and avoid illegal activities. The four individuals have been handed over to Jaynagar Police Station for further investigation.
Doubts Revealed
US Nationals -: US Nationals are people who are citizens of the United States of America. In this case, they are from California, which is a state in the USA.
California -: California is a state on the west coast of the United States. It is known for cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Bihar -: Bihar is a state in eastern India. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage.
Illegal Border Crossing -: Illegal border crossing means entering a country without following the legal procedures or having the necessary documents.
Madhubani district -: Madhubani is a district in the state of Bihar, India. It is famous for its traditional Madhubani paintings.
Sashastra Seema Bal -: Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) is a paramilitary force in India responsible for guarding the country’s borders with Nepal and Bhutan.
Indo-Nepal border -: The Indo-Nepal border is the international boundary between India and Nepal. It is an open border, but people need valid documents to cross it legally.
Chhath Puja -: Chhath Puja is a Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God. It is mainly celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh.
Nepal visa -: A Nepal visa is a document that allows someone to enter and stay in Nepal for a certain period. Even with a Nepal visa, one must follow the rules of the country they are in.
Indian immigration rules -: Indian immigration rules are the laws and regulations that govern how people can enter, stay, and leave India. Violating these rules can lead to legal trouble.
