West Bengal Police have arrested a Bangladeshi national accused of staying in India without valid immigration papers. The individual has been identified as Mufti Abdullah Hafij Al Masood, son of Mahabur Rahaman from the Nazirpur area in Bangladesh’s Pirojpur district. The arrest came after a week-long investigation by Kalyani Police based on intelligence inputs regarding a foreign national allegedly overstaying in the country and attempting to hide his identity.
Masood was detained from a rented accommodation in Gokulpur in Nadia district. Officers stated that he initially claimed to hold a valid passport and visa, but authorities confirmed both documents had expired. According to the investigation, Masood entered India legally in 2017. His visa and passport expired in 2020, and although his passport was renewed in 2024, he did not secure a new visa or residence permit. Police said he lived at several locations before moving to Kalyani in April 2025.
Ranaghat Police District Superintendent Aashish Maurya confirmed the arrest, noting that Masood overstayed without legal permission and ignored immigration protocols. He has been booked under the provisions of the Foreigners Act and has been remanded to judicial custody by a court.
Initial findings indicate that Masood was a liberal content creator in Bangladesh, known for YouTube videos promoting atheistic views and questioning religious doctrines. Due to threats from extremist groups, he reportedly fled to India in 2017 for safety. After his legal documents expired, he avoided authorities by frequently relocating.
Police said state and central intelligence agencies, including the CID, are now examining his background and digital activity. Investigators are questioning those who provided him accommodation, and further legal steps will depend on the outcome, including whether deportation or additional charges will be pursued.
