What Led to the Seizure of Methamphetamine Tablets Worth Rs 20.61 Crore in Mizoram?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Assam Rifles seized 6.87 kg of Methamphetamine tablets.
- The drugs were valued at approximately Rs 20.61 crore.
- This operation took place in the Khawzawl region of Mizoram.
- The drugs were being smuggled from Myanmar.
- Myanmar serves as a key transit point for various narcotics entering India.
Aizawl, Oct 1 (NationPress) Officials reported that the Assam Rifles have confiscated drugs valued at Rs 20.61 crore in Mizoram on Wednesday.
A defence spokesperson indicated that, acting on credible intelligence regarding drug trafficking, the Assam Rifles initiated a search operation on Tuesday night in the Khawzawl region of Mizoram, adjacent to Myanmar.
During the operation, troops spotted a suspicious individual carrying a package. Upon noticing the presence of security personnel, the suspect abandoned the consignment in the jungle and fled the scene.
After a comprehensive search, the troops discovered 6.87 kg of Methamphetamine tablets, with an estimated market value of around Rs 20.61 crores internationally.
The confiscated narcotics were subsequently handed over to the Mizoram Police for continued investigation and necessary actions. This operation reinforces the unwavering dedication of the Assam Rifles in the fight against drug trafficking.
The illicit, highly addictive methamphetamine tablets are commonly referred to as Yaba, party tablets, or WY (World is Yours).
According to Assam Rifles officials, these drugs were smuggled from Myanmar, aiming to be transported to various locations within India or internationally.
Myanmar, sharing a 1,643 km unfenced border with four northeastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram—acts as a significant transit point for narcotics, especially heroin and methamphetamine tablets, entering India.
The Mizoram districts bordering Myanmar include Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip, which collectively share a 510 km border with Myanmar's Chin State—a notorious hub for smuggling diverse drugs, exotic wildlife, and other contraband through the northeastern states.
In a related incident, on September 29, the Assam Rifles intercepted methamphetamine tablets exceeding Rs 60 crore in value in the Mohanpur areas of West Tripura, which borders Bangladesh.
A defence spokesperson mentioned that, following reliable intelligence, troops promptly intercepted a substantial consignment, thwarting an attempt by drug traffickers to take advantage of the festive season of Durga Puja for smuggling methamphetamine tablets.