What Led to the Seizure of Meth Tablets Worth Rs 13.33 Crore and the Arrest of a Myanmarese National?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Assam Rifles intercepted 4.444 kg of methamphetamine.
- The value of the seized drugs exceeds Rs 13.33 crore.
- A Myanmarese drug dealer was apprehended.
- The operation underscores the fight against narcotics trafficking.
- Mizoram has a long, unfenced border with Myanmar.
Aizawl, Nov 26 (NationPress) The Assam Rifles have successfully intercepted methamphetamine tablets valued at over Rs 13.33 crore and apprehended a Myanmarese drug dealer, according to official statements made on Wednesday.
A spokesperson for the defense reported that, acting on credible intelligence regarding narcotics smuggling near the India-Myanmar border, Assam Rifles personnel initiated an operation along the World Bank Road at the Zokhawthar border in Mizoram’s Champhai district on Tuesday afternoon.
During this operation, unusual activity was observed, prompting a rapid response that resulted in the recovery of 4.444 kg of methamphetamine tablets, a hazardous psychotropic substance, with an estimated international market value of around Rs 13.33 crore, the spokesperson noted.
The confiscated drugs, which were illegally transported from Myanmar, have been handed over to the Excise and Narcotics Department in Champhai for thorough investigation and necessary legal proceedings. During the operation, the individual identified as Bawi Kanthanga, a Myanmarese national, was also taken into custody.
This prompt and decisive action by the Assam Rifles underscores their steadfast commitment to combat cross-border drug trafficking and protect the youth of Mizoram from the detrimental effects of narcotics. The spokesperson highlighted that this operation further enhances collective efforts to uphold peace and security in the region.
The methamphetamine tablets, commonly referred to as Yaba or party tablets, consist of a blend of methamphetamine and caffeine, earning the moniker 'crazy drug.' These substances are prohibited in India.
In a different operation, the Assam Rifles uncovered a significant amount of illicit liquor valued at Rs 19.32 lakh from the Bijang area in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Tuesday evening. The spokesperson mentioned that this operation was initiated based on reliable intelligence concerning the smuggling of illegal liquor from Jiribam towards Imphal.
Responding quickly to the information, a coordinated mobile vehicle checkpoint was set up on the National Highway in conjunction with the Manipur Police. A suspicious truck heading towards Imphal was stopped, and a search revealed a substantial quantity of concealed illicit liquor.
Mizoram shares a 510 km unfenced border with Myanmar and a 318 km border with Bangladesh, while Manipur has a 398 km unfenced border with Myanmar. Both northeastern states share interstate borders with Assam, Nagaland, and Tripura.
Myanmar's Chin state serves as a significant hub for the trafficking of various drugs, exotic wildlife, and other illegal contraband through six districts in Mizoram—Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip—and five districts in Manipur—Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, Chandel, Kamjong, and Ukhrul.