Mizoram Police intercepted a major drug consignment on Tuesday, 19 May, seizing 2.02 lakh methamphetamine tablets worth over ₹19.21 crore and arresting two alleged traffickers, both residents of Manipur. The bust took place on the outskirts of Keifang junction in Saitual district, marking one of the larger single-haul seizures in the state this year.

How the Seizure Unfolded

A white car travelling from Manipur toward Aizawl was flagged down and searched on suspicion of carrying illegal contraband, according to officials. A thorough inspection of the vehicle yielded 20 bundles of methamphetamine tablets totalling 2.02 lakh tablets and weighing 24.016 kg. The drugs were concealed beneath the spare tyre compartment and along both sides beyond the mudguard area, wrapped in black polythene sheets — a concealment method that officials say is increasingly common on this route.

The Accused

The two men arrested have been identified as Th. Onkhothang Haokip, aged 33, a resident of Chandel district, Manipur, and Mathew, aged 46, a resident of Churachandpur district, Manipur. Both were arrested on the spot. The vehicle used to transport the contraband was also seized. A case has been registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, and further investigation is underway.

Mizoram as a Drug Corridor

The seizure underscores Mizoram's persistent vulnerability as a transit corridor for narcotics in Northeast India. The state shares long, largely unfenced international borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh, making it a preferred smuggling route. Officials note that illegal consignments are most frequently intercepted across six districts: Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip.

What Are Yaba Tablets

The seized tablets are commonly known as Yaba — derived from a Thai phrase meaning 'crazy drug' — and contain a mixture of methamphetamine and caffeine. They are also referred to as 'party tablets' and are strictly prohibited in India. Myanmar remains the primary source of Yaba flowing into the Northeast, alongside heroin, according to law enforcement officials.

What Comes Next

Investigators are examining the broader supply chain behind the consignment to determine whether a larger trafficking network is involved. The Manipur connection in this case is notable, as the state has itself been grappling with a severe drug crisis. Continued pressure on the Saitual corridor is expected in the coming weeks as part of Mizoram Police's ongoing anti-narcotics drive.