Explosives Uncovered by Security Forces in Mizoram
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Synopsis
In a meticulous operation, Assam Rifles and Mizoram Police seized explosives in Aizawl. This included 30 gelatin sticks and 20 detonators intended for possible militant use. These actions underscore the ongoing challenges regarding illegal arms trade across Mizoram's borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh, prompting increased vigilance from security forces.
Key Takeaways
- 30 gelatin sticks and 20 detonators seized.
- Operation carried out by Assam Rifles and Mizoram Police.
- Driver arrested, suspected of transporting explosives.
- Concerns over arms trafficking to militant outfits.
- Increased border security measures in Mizoram.
Aizawl, Jan 19 (NationPress) In a well-coordinated operation, Assam Rifles and Mizoram Police have successfully seized 30 gelatin sticks and 20 detonators near the prominent Aijal Club located at Khatla Road in Aizawl, according to officials on Sunday.
A defence spokesman reported that following specific intelligence regarding the transport of explosives along Khatla Road, Assam Rifles and Mizoram Police set up a Mobile Vehicle Check Post on Saturday night.
As a result, security forces intercepted a vehicle traveling from Aizawl to Cherhlun, recovering 30 gelatin sticks and 20 detonators from the vehicle. The confiscated materials have been transferred to Mizoram Police.
The driver, identified as Hmingthansanga (42), a resident of Hnahthial district, has also been arrested.
Senior police officials suspect that the explosives were likely intended for transport to neighboring Myanmar for distribution to militant organizations opposing the military of that country.
In another notable incident in Mizoram, police seized a substantial cache of arms and ammunition on January 15. This was discovered as supplies were being transported from an insurgent group based in Myanmar to a rebel faction in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) of southeastern Bangladesh.
A Mizoram Home Department official stated that five individuals have been arrested in connection with the arms seizure.
Among those detained is a prominent leader of the Chin National Front (CNF), an insurgent group from Myanmar. The arms and ammunition confiscated in the Saithah village of border-adjacent Mamit District include six AK-47 rifles, 10,050 AK-47 cartridges, and 13 magazines.
According to preliminary investigations, the seized weapons were meant for trading between the CNF, a significant rebel faction from Myanmar, and the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF-P), another insurgent group operating in the CHT.
The Assam Rifles are tasked with securing the 510 km unfenced international border between Mizoram and Myanmar, while the Border Security Force (BSF) oversees the 318 km unfenced borders with Bangladesh.
The recent confiscations highlight the alarming issue of illegal arms and explosives trade across Mizoram's porous borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh, despite increased vigilance from border guarding forces aimed at curbing trans-border illegal activities.
