Why is the ED conducting searches in Mizoram, Assam, and Gujarat?
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Synopsis
On November 27, the Enforcement Directorate launched extensive search operations across Mizoram, Assam, and Gujarat as part of an investigation into money laundering activities linked to drug trafficking. The agency uncovered significant cash and digital evidence, revealing complex networks between drug smugglers and financial operations.
Key Takeaways
- ED conducted searches in three states.
- Evidence of drug trafficking uncovered.
- Significant cash and digital evidence found.
- Financial links between firms identified.
- Investigation continues amid ongoing scrutiny.
New Delhi/Aizawl, Nov 27 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted a series of coordinated search operations on Thursday, adhering to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. These operations spanned multiple locations across Mizoram, Assam, and Gujarat, as per information from sources within the central investigative agency.
Agents from the ED's Aizawl Sub Zonal office executed searches at several sites throughout Aizawl and Champhai in Mizoram, Sribhumi district (formerly known as Karimganj) in southern Assam, and in Ahmedabad in Gujarat.
According to ED sources, during the PMLA investigation and search procedures, a total of Rs 35 lakh in cash was uncovered, along with additional evidence stored in digital devices that are currently under examination.
The ED's inquiry was initiated based on an FIR filed by the Mizoram Police under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, which led to the seizure of 4.724 kgs of heroin valued at over Rs 1.41 crore from six detained individuals.
Financial assessments of those arrested revealed connections between firms in Mizoram and those in Gujarat.
Firms in Gujarat were identified as suppliers of Pseudoephedrine tablets (listed as Schedule-A, B, C substances within the NDPS-RCS Order 2013) and Caffeine Anhydrous (a precursor for Methamphetamine Tablets) to Mizoram-based companies linked to drug traffickers. These traffickers conduct their operations and hawala transactions through habitual offenders located in Champhai, which is known for its drug smuggling activities bordering Myanmar.
Connections between Mizoram-based entities and shell companies in Kolkata were also uncovered, which had acquired the aforementioned shipment of Caffeine Anhydrous.
The precursors for Methamphetamine are illicitly transported from India to Myanmar via the permeable international borders. In Myanmar, they are manufactured, and the finished products are smuggled back into India, primarily through Mizoram.
Significant amounts totaling Rs 52.8 crore were observed in the accounts of narco hawala operators, including cash deposits from Assam, Mizoram, Nagaland, West Bengal, Tripura, and Delhi.
Detailed statements from these narco hawala operators are currently being collected.
The investigation continues.
Mizoram has an unfenced border of 510 km with Myanmar and 318 km with Bangladesh, while Manipur shares a 398 km unfenced border with Myanmar.
Both northeastern states also have borders with Assam, Nagaland, and Tripura.
The Chin state in Myanmar serves as a major hub for the smuggling of various drugs, exotic wildlife, and other illegal goods through six districts in Mizoram—Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip—and five districts in Manipur—Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, Chandel, Kamjong, and Ukhrul.
Point of View
I affirm that the ongoing investigations by the Enforcement Directorate highlight the serious issues of drug trafficking and money laundering affecting our society. It is imperative for law enforcement agencies to work diligently to dismantle such networks and uphold the rule of law.
NationPress
27/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What laws is the ED enforcing during these raids?
The ED is operating under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
What was seized during the ED's operations?
The operations resulted in the seizure of cash totaling Rs 35 lakh and various digital devices containing evidence.
Why was the investigation initiated?
The investigation was sparked by an FIR filed by the Mizoram Police concerning a large heroin seizure.
What financial connections were established?
The investigation revealed financial linkages between Mizoram-based firms and those in Gujarat, along with connections to shell companies in Kolkata.
How does this relate to drug smuggling?
The investigations indicate a network supplying drug precursors from Gujarat to Mizoram, facilitating the production of methamphetamines.
