What Major Drug Bust Did Assam Rifles Achieve in Tripura?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Assam Rifles conducted a successful operation against drug trafficking.
- Seized methamphetamine tablets worth Rs 14 crore.
- Arrested a truck driver in Khowai district.
- Collaboration with Customs officials highlights a unified approach.
- Second major drug seizure in a week indicates ongoing issues with narcotics.
Agartala, July 22 (NationPress) - In a significant operation, the Assam Rifles, collaborating with Customs officials, confiscated methamphetamine tablets valued at Rs 14 crore and apprehended a truck driver in Tripura's Khowai district, as stated by officials on Tuesday.
According to a spokesperson from the defence sector, the operation occurred late on Monday night at Tuchandrai Bazar, where the troops and Customs officials stopped a truck. Following a detailed inspection, they seized 1.4 lakh methamphetamine tablets. The contraband along with the arrested driver was transferred to the Customs Department for further inquiry and legal proceedings.
An official communiqué indicated that the Assam Rifles, in partnership with various enforcement entities, is dedicated to combating illegal activities and ensuring peace and security in the area.
This marks the second notable drug bust by the Assam Rifles in Tripura within a week.
On July 16, in collaboration with the Tripura Police, Assam Rifles personnel stopped a truck in Khayerpur, West Tripura, recovering three lakh methamphetamine tablets, worth Rs 30 crore. In that incident, the driver managed to evade capture.
Authorities suspect that these drugs, commonly known as Yaba or party tablets, were smuggled from Myanmar through Mizoram and southern Assam, entering Tripura, and were intended for Bangladesh. Methamphetamine, available in tablet, powder, or crystalline forms—often referred to as ice or crystal meth—is a stimulant that diminishes the need for sleep and is frequently used by partygoers and younger adults.
Myanmar's Chin State has become a key hub for drug trafficking, wildlife smuggling, and other illegal operations. The contraband is frequently routed through six districts in Mizoram: Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip, which share an unfenced border of 510 km with Myanmar and 318 km with Bangladesh.
The Chief Minister of Tripura, who also oversees the Home portfolio, recently cautioned that numerous influential individuals are engaged in the drug trade for financial benefits but assured that no one will evade justice if apprehended.
During a recent event for the ‘Drug-Free India Campaign’ in West Tripura, he emphasized that law enforcement remains vigilant to prevent the state from being exploited as a route for narcotics trafficking.