Massive Cache of Explosives Found in Mizoram; Two Myanmar Nationals Arrested
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Synopsis
On February 16, authorities in Mizoram seized a large cache of explosives, including 3,000 electric detonators and 700 metres of cordtex, apprehending two Myanmar nationals involved in the smuggling attempt.
Key Takeaways
- 3,000 electric detonators and 700 metres of cordtex seized.
- Two Myanmar nationals arrested during the operation.
- Previous seizures indicate ongoing issues with arms trafficking.
- Mizoram shares a 510 km unfenced border with Myanmar.
- Champhai district is a hotspot for smuggling activities.
Imphal, Feb 16 (NationPress) The ongoing battle against arms trafficking in Mizoram has led to the confiscation of 3,000 electric detonators, 700 metres of cordtex, and various war-like materials on Sunday, alongside the arrest of two Myanmar nationals, according to officials.
A spokesperson for the defense reported that a coordinated operation between the Assam Rifles and Mizoram Police was launched based on credible intelligence regarding explosives located in the Vokte Kai region of Zokhawtar in Champhai district.
During this joint effort, the authorities apprehended two individuals on a motorcycle, seizing from them 3,000 electric detonators, 700 metres of cordtex, and other military supplies.
The detained Myanmar nationals, along with the confiscated materials, have been handed over to Mizoram Police for subsequent legal proceedings.
Authorities suspect that these individuals were attempting to smuggle the explosive items back to Myanmar from Mizoram.
This incident marks the second significant seizure of explosives within a fortnight.
On February 3, a prior interception by Assam Rifles and Mizoram Police resulted in the apprehension of two suspects and the recovery of 800 detonators and 2,000 gelatine sticks.
Furthermore, on February 12, Mizoram Police stopped a vehicle in Lunglei Bazar, uncovering two AK-47 rifles, five US-made M4 carbines, 20 magazines, 504 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and 4,675 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition.
In this operation, cash amounting to Rs 49,550, along with documents, SIM cards, ATM cards, and five mobile devices, were also confiscated.
Three individuals – two from Mizoram and one from neighbouring Tripura, who were in possession of these arms, were arrested.
All three belong to the Chakma community.
Earlier, on January 15, Mizoram Police discovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition in Saithah village, which borders Mamit district, sharing an unfenced border with Bangladesh.
This seizure included six AK-47 rifles, 10,050 AK-47 cartridges, and 13 magazines.
Authorities believe these weapons were intended for smuggling into Bangladesh, where they could be utilized for militant activities or violence.
Mizoram's six districts – Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip – share a combined 510 km of unfenced border with Myanmar's Chin state. The mountainous Champhai district has become a hotspot for smuggling various drugs, arms, and other illegal goods.
Drugs such as heroin and addictive methamphetamine tablets, along with arms and ammunition, are frequently trafficked into India's northeastern states from Myanmar, which has a total unfenced border of 1,643 km with four northeastern states – Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Manipur (398 km), Nagaland (215 km), and Mizoram (510 km).
