What Led to the Seizure of Drugs Worth Over Rs 22 Crore in Manipur?
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Synopsis
On June 14, Manipur Police made a remarkable drug bust, seizing over Rs 22 crore worth of methamphetamine tablets and arresting a truck driver. This operation highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the region, particularly along the porous India-Myanmar border.
Key Takeaways
- Manipur Police have seized methamphetamine tablets worth over Rs 22 crore.
- The operation led to the arrest of a truck driver.
- Drug trafficking remains a significant challenge in the region.
- Collaboration among law enforcement agencies is vital for effective action.
- The NDPS Act imposes strict penalties on drug offenders.
Imphal, June 14 (NationPress) The Manipur Police have successfully confiscated a significant cache of highly addictive methamphetamine tablets valued at over Rs 22 crore, leading to the arrest of a truck driver, officials reported on Saturday.
A senior official revealed that the police intercepted a truck at the New Keithelmanbi Police picket in Imphal West District on Friday night, uncovering a substantial quantity of drugs hidden within the vehicle's roof.
The seized substances were identified as methamphetamine tablets, commonly referred to as Yaba or party tablets, following sample testing.
The truck driver, identified as Nawaj Sharif (34), from Thoubal District, was apprehended, and a total of 57.285 kg of methamphetamine tablets worth Rs 22 crore were confiscated, according to the official.
In another operation last week, a collaborative team from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Customs, Assam Rifles, and the Manipur Police recovered 7,755.75 grams of heroin valued at Rs 54.29 crore along with 6,736 grams of opium worth Rs 87.57 lakh in the international grey drug market, in addition to Rs 35.63 lakh in cash.
Additionally, two walkie-talkies and one vehicle were seized, resulting in five arrests under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act).
According to the official, the drugs, which were retrieved from a residence in Thadou Veng, Churachandpur district, were contained in numerous soap cases and small tin cans.
Initial investigations suggest that the contraband was smuggled into the bordering areas of Churachandpur from Myanmar through the porous India-Myanmar forest border.
Despite facing numerous challenges, a well-coordinated operation by law enforcement agencies resulted in this successful confiscation, as noted in an official statement.
The NDPS Act imposes severe penalties on offenders, which may include rigorous imprisonment of up to ten years.
Previously, substantial quantities of drugs have been seized in Churachandpur, which shares an unfenced border with both Myanmar and Mizoram.
Myanmar, with its 1,643 km unfenced border with four northeastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram—serves as a critical transit point for drugs, particularly heroin and methamphetamine tablets, entering India.
Point of View
The recent drug seizure in Manipur reflects the persistent challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in combating drug trafficking. The collaboration among various agencies demonstrates a proactive approach to tackling this pressing issue, which has far-reaching implications for public health and safety.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of drugs were seized in Manipur?
The drugs seized were highly addictive methamphetamine tablets, valued at over Rs 22 crore.
Who was arrested during the operation?
A truck driver named Nawaj Sharif, aged 34, was arrested in connection with the drug seizure.
What other drugs have been confiscated recently?
In a separate operation, authorities seized heroin and opium, amounting to substantial market values.
How are drugs smuggled into India?
Drugs are often smuggled through the porous India-Myanmar border, taking advantage of the difficult terrain.
What penalties do offenders face under the NDPS Act?
Offenders can face severe penalties, including rigorous imprisonment for up to ten years under the NDPS Act.
