What Did the Assam Rifles Discover in Mizoram?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Assam Rifles conduct successful operations against illegal arms.
- Significant cache recovered in Mizoram highlights ongoing security challenges.
- Border areas are crucial for combating drug and arms trafficking.
- Continued vigilance is necessary to maintain peace.
- Collaboration with local authorities like Mizoram Police is essential for investigations.
Aizawl, Oct 25 (NationPress) In a significant operation, the Assam Rifles have unearthed a substantial cache of arms and ammunition in Mizoram, as reported by officials on Saturday.
A defence spokesperson revealed that the Assam Rifles executed a meticulous and well-planned search operation on Friday in the Saikhumpai region of the Champhai District, an area notorious for smuggling various illicit drugs and firearms.
This operation was conducted with an element of surprise and involved an extensive search through densely forested regions. During the search, troops discovered a hidden stash that included six 60mm Mortar Tubes with base plates, two Myanmar-manufactured 7.62mm Assault Rifles, three shotguns, two .22 Rifles, and one Hand Grenade.
In addition, the troops retrieved 45 live rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 15 rounds of 60mm Mortar, two Anti-Personnel Mines, and two radio sets complete with antennas and a charger.
After the recovery, the team undertook an extensive area domination exercise to ascertain any underground presence nearby. However, no signs of underground activity were found. The seized weapons and ammunition have been secured at the site and subsequently handed over to the Mizoram Police for further investigation and legal proceedings.
The Assam Rifles remains unwavering in its dedication to dismantling illegal arms networks and fostering ongoing peace and security in Mizoram’s border regions, according to an official statement.
This paramilitary force is responsible for safeguarding the 1,643-km-long India–Myanmar border, which spans four Northeastern states: Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Nagaland. These unfenced borders are crucial transit points for various drugs, particularly heroin and methamphetamine, as well as an array of arms entering India.
The districts in Mizoram that share a border with Myanmar include Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip. Collectively, these districts border Myanmar's Chin state for 510 km, a hotspot for the smuggling of drugs, arms, exotic wildlife, and numerous other contraband through the Northeastern states.