RAUTAHAT: Police seized 12.88 tons of pumpkin seeds worth Rs 9 million from the Nepal-India border in Rautahat on Wednesday, foiling an alleged smuggling attempt into India.

Acting on a tip-off, a joint team of the District Police and the Armed Police Force recovered the seeds from Bankul Settlement in Baudhimai Municipality-7 of the district. Authorities said the consignment was being transported illegally across the border.

The operation triggered a brief clash after locals obstructed police efforts. Officers fired six rounds of tear gas after stone-pelting broke out. Three civilians and three police personnel sustained minor injuries.

Police are preparing to hand over the seized seeds to customs authorities for further action.