What Did Assam Rifles Seize Worth Rs 8.70 Crore?
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Synopsis
In a remarkable crackdown, Assam Rifles has seized contraband worth Rs 8.70 crore in Mizoram, including poppy seeds and foreign cigarettes. Ten smugglers were apprehended during the operation, highlighting ongoing issues of drug trafficking and illegal smuggling across Indian borders. This operation emphasizes the need for stronger measures against such illegal activities.
Key Takeaways
- Assam Rifles seized Grade A poppy seeds and foreign cigarettes worth Rs 8.70 crore.
- Ten smugglers were arrested during the operation.
- The operation emphasized the ongoing challenges of drug trafficking across Indian borders.
- Mizoram shares a 510 km unfenced border with Myanmar, making it vulnerable to smuggling.
- Collaboration between Assam Rifles and local police is crucial in combating smuggling activities.
Aizawl, Sep 28 (NationPress) In a significant operation, personnel from the Assam Rifles have successfully confiscated Grade A poppy seeds and foreign cigarettes with a total estimated value of Rs 8.70 crore while apprehending ten smugglers in Mizoram, as reported by officials on Sunday.
A spokesperson for the Defence revealed that the Assam Rifles initiated an operation based on credible intelligence regarding the transportation of contraband and illegal goods. This operation took place in the Seiling and Zokhawsang regions within Mizoram’s Aizawl district on Saturday night.
During the operation, Assam Rifles personnel intercepted four trucks destined for Aizawl at the Zokhawsang gate along National Highway-6. Subsequent searches led to the recovery of 650 bags of white poppy seeds (Grade-A) and 35 cartons of foreign cigarettes, collectively valued at around Rs 5.9 crore.
As a result, seven individuals, all hailing from the bordering Champhai district of Mizoram, were apprehended.
In a separate operation, following intelligence regarding the smuggling of foreign cigarettes, the Assam Rifles collaborated with the Mizoram Police to execute a mission in the Tlangsam area of Champhai district on Saturday.
The contraband was traced as it moved from the Tiao River towards Tlangsam via a forest route. The joint team successfully intercepted the shipment at a strategic location.
The Tiao River acts as a natural boundary between Mizoram in India and the Chin State in Myanmar.
During this operation, various types of foreign cigarettes were seized, housed in 146 cases. This shipment, which had been illegally imported from Myanmar, was valued at approximately Rs 2.80 crore and carried by three individuals from the Tlangsam area of Champhai district.
The apprehended suspects and the confiscated contraband were handed over to the Legal Metrology Department in Champhai for further legal proceedings.
Myanmar's Chin state is notorious for being a hotspot for smuggling diverse drugs, illegal wildlife, and other contraband items through six districts in Mizoram: Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip.
A plethora of drugs, including highly addictive methamphetamine tablets, heroin, arms, ammunition, explosives, and various contraband, are frequently trafficked through these six districts, which share a 510 km unfenced border with Myanmar.
From Mizoram, these illicit substances are transported to other regions of India and even to international destinations, including Bangladesh, via Assam and Tripura.
Point of View
This operation by the Assam Rifles illustrates the ongoing battle against smuggling and drug trafficking in India. It underscores the importance of intelligence-led operations and collaboration with local law enforcement to combat these issues effectively. The involvement of multiple state actors in addressing these challenges showcases a united front in the fight against illegal activities.
NationPress
28/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What items did the Assam Rifles seize?
The Assam Rifles seized Grade A poppy seeds and foreign cigarettes, valued at Rs 8.70 crore.
How many smugglers were arrested?
Ten smugglers were arrested during the operation conducted by the Assam Rifles.
Where did the operation take place?
The operation occurred in the Seiling and Zokhawsang areas of Mizoram's Aizawl district.
What is the significance of the Tiao River?
The Tiao River forms a natural boundary between Mizoram in India and the Chin State in Myanmar, making it a key point for smuggling activities.
What types of contraband are commonly smuggled from Myanmar?
Commonly smuggled items include drugs like methamphetamine and heroin, as well as arms, ammunition, and exotic wildlife.
