DARCHULA: The security authorities of Nepal and India have agreed to prevent cross-border crimes that take place along the Nepal-India border in Darchula district.

The officials of both countries reached the agreement at a joint security meeting held at Jauljibi, India on Tuesday. The Indian Seema Suraksha Bal (SSB)'s 55th Battalion organised the joint meeting.

"We have agreed to work in tandem and exchange information for stopping the cross-border smuggling, arms smuggling, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and smuggling of wildlife parts and trophies, among other criminal activities," Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) at the District Police Office, Janak Bahadur Shahi said.

The Jauljibi-based SSB 55th Battalion is guarding the 85 kilometre long border from Darchula to Baitadi district, according to DSP Shahi.

Assistant Chief District Officer of Darchula, Shiva Raj Joshi said the joint meeting's decision would be effective in curbing cross-border crimes and other criminal activities along the Nepal-India border in the district.

Assistant CDO Joshi, DSP Shahi, investigation officer Birendra Karki, and officiating chief of the Armed Police Force (APF) border security company of Darchula, Bikas Thapa participated in the meeting from Nepal while the Indian side was led by SSB 55th Battalion commander RC Ghosh.