Visa Overstay: Three From Cameroon Held in Bengal
In a firm demonstration of immigration law enforcement, three Cameroonian nationals were detained in West Bengal’s Darjeeling district for overstaying their visas beyond the permitted period. The arrests were made by the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), highlighting the authorities’ continued vigilance in addressing visa violations.
Arrest Details
The incident occurred in Panighatta, a location situated about 32 kilometers from Siliguri. Acting on routine border monitoring protocols, the SSB’s 8th Battalion apprehended the individuals on Sunday, July 21. They were handed over to the local police on Monday for further legal action.
Identities and Visa Expiry
The three individuals were identified as:
- Tjol Ivan, whose visa expired on July 21, 2024
- Tsowemoho Claude Idriss, whose visa expired on April 18, 2025
- Bonha A Nyam Shlvain, whose visa expired on November 7, 2024
All three had overstayed their legal permission to remain in India and failed to initiate any visa renewal or extension procedures with the authorities.
Legal Consequences
According to Indian immigration laws, visa overstaying is considered a serious offense. The individuals may now face fines, detention, and eventual deportation. The matter is currently under investigation by the local police in coordination with immigration authorities.
Enforcement and Implications
The SSB continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding India’s borders and ensuring that foreigners residing in the country comply with visa norms. Regular checks in sensitive border areas like Darjeeling are part of a broader strategy to curb illegal stay and maintain national security.
Conclusion
This incident underscores the importance of visa compliance for all foreign nationals visiting or residing in India. Immigration authorities advise travelers to monitor their visa validity closely and initiate timely extensions where necessary to avoid legal consequences.