What Led to the Recovery of Rs 4.5 Crore Banned Cough Syrup in Tripura?
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Synopsis
In a remarkable operation, security forces in Tripura seized a staggering Rs 4.5 crore worth of banned cough syrup from a goods train, revealing the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the region. This latest bust highlights the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies in combating the narcotics crisis that threatens the Northeast.
Key Takeaways
- Security forces recovered Rs 4.5 crore worth of banned cough syrup.
- The operation involved multiple agencies working together.
- Tripura faces significant drug trafficking challenges due to its geographical location.
- Recent seizures highlight the ongoing narcotics crisis in the region.
- Vigilance and cooperation among enforcement agencies are vital for success.
Agartala, Oct 17 (NationPress) In a significant operation, security forces seized drugs valued at Rs 4.5 crore from a goods train arriving in Agartala from Delhi, officials reported on Friday.
A senior official disclosed that, acting on specific intelligence, a collaborative team of security forces conducted a meticulous search of a goods train at the Jirania railway station in West Tripura district, uncovering 90,000 bottles of the prohibited Eskuf Cough Syrup.
The Eskuf Cough Syrup, which is banned in India, contains Codeine Phosphate and Triprolidine Hydrochloride, substances frequently abused as narcotics in India and neighboring Bangladesh. The estimated worth of the seized drugs in the illegal market stands at around Rs 4.5 crore, the official added.
In a decisive blow against drug trafficking, the joint forces of Tripura Police, Assam Rifles, Government Railway Police (GRP), Special Task Force (STF), and the Customs Department executed the operation, successfully confiscating the illegal pharmaceutical shipment, he stated.
Following the arrival of the goods train, which was carrying chicken feed, rice, and other goods, at Jirania railway station from Delhi, the search operation began on Thursday evening and extended into the early hours of Friday.
The confiscated items were found to be unclaimed and concealed in two wagons among other cargo. The shipment has been handed over to the Customs Department for further investigation and appropriate legal measures.
The Assam Rifles, in conjunction with other enforcement agencies, maintains a vigilant stance against drug trafficking in the Northeast, working diligently to protect the region from illicit activities.
With this latest drug seizure, narcotics worth over Rs 134.50 crore have been confiscated in Tripura within a span of less than three weeks.
On October 6, in another significant operation, the Assam Rifles, in close coordination with Customs officials, seized contraband worth Rs 70 crore in the bordering Khowai district and apprehended four drug peddlers.
Acting on secret intelligence, the joint team of Assam Rifles and Customs officials intercepted two trucks disguised as carrying cement, which were actually transporting narcotics, recovering 69.61 kg of highly addictive methamphetamine tablets valued at approximately Rs 70 crore.
A Defence spokesperson indicated that the October 6 operation was a follow-up to a successful mission conducted on September 29 in the bordering Mohanpur area of West Tripura district, which resulted in the recovery of 60.77 kg of banned methamphetamine tablets worth Rs 60 crore. A senior police official mentioned that the drugs seized on both September 29 and October 6 were likely smuggled from Myanmar through Mizoram and southern Assam to Tripura, with intentions to transport them into neighboring Bangladesh.
Tripura, sharing an 856-km border with Bangladesh, is encircled on three sides by the neighboring nation, rendering the northeastern state susceptible to cross-border migration, criminal activities, illegal trade, and smuggling. Except for certain areas, most of the border has been fenced to deter smuggling, trans-border crimes, and illegal infiltration.
Point of View
I commend the collaborative efforts of security agencies in Tripura for their relentless commitment to combatting drug trafficking. This operation not only highlights the challenges faced in the region due to its geographical vulnerabilities but also underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among enforcement bodies to safeguard our communities.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was recovered from the goods train in Tripura?
Security forces recovered 90,000 bottles of banned Eskuf Cough Syrup valued at Rs 4.5 crore.
Why is Eskuf Cough Syrup banned in India?
Eskuf Cough Syrup is banned due to its active ingredients, Codeine Phosphate and Triprolidine Hydrochloride, which are often misused as narcotics.
Who conducted the operation to seize the drugs?
The operation was a joint effort by Tripura Police, Assam Rifles, Government Railway Police (GRP), Special Task Force (STF), and Customs Department.
How much narcotics have been seized in Tripura recently?
In less than three weeks, narcotics worth over Rs 134.50 crore have been confiscated in Tripura.
What geographical challenges does Tripura face regarding smuggling?
Tripura shares an 856-km border with Bangladesh, making it susceptible to cross-border crimes and illegal trade.
