In Response to Ongoing Drug Trafficking, NCB Seeks Zonal Office in Mizoram
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Synopsis
Amid increasing drug trafficking from Myanmar, the NCB proposes to establish a zonal office in Mizoram, highlighting the urgent need for local language proficiency and enhanced security measures.
Key Takeaways
- NCB proposes zonal office in Mizoram.
- Meeting between NCB DG and Chief Minister.
- Need for local language proficiency.
- Focus on combating drug trafficking.
- Request for a formal proposal and manpower enhancement.
Aizawl, April 9 (NationPress) In light of the persistent smuggling of various narcotics from Myanmar, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has put forward a proposal for establishing a zonal office in the northeastern state, officials reported on Wednesday.
A government official from Mizoram stated that NCB Director General Anurag Garg met with Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma and recommended the creation of a comprehensive zonal office for the NCB in the state, stressing the necessity for additional personnel and officials who are proficient in the local dialect and familiar with the state’s circumstances.
During the discussion, Lalduhoma, a former IPS officer, explored strategies to combat drug trafficking and the use of narcotics among the youth.
He urged the NCB DG to provide a formal proposal outlining the establishment of the zonal office and its specific requirements.
The official noted that the Chief Minister pointed out the critical need to enhance infrastructure, security, and necessary manpower along the India-Myanmar border to effectively tackle drug trafficking from South Asian nations.
Mizoram has a 510 km and 318 km unfenced border with Myanmar and Bangladesh, respectively.
Lalduhoma informed the NCB DG that he has previously requested the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to establish or permit the state government to form a Mizo Territorial Army to bolster surveillance along the state’s unprotected borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh.
He requested the NCB DG to deliver a written proposal detailing the bureau's specific needs to enhance its operations, the statement mentioned.
The neighboring Chin state in Myanmar is notorious for the smuggling of various drugs, exotic wildlife, and other contraband through six districts in Mizoram: Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip.
The mountainous Champhai district has become a focal point for the smuggling of a range of drugs, including highly addictive methamphetamine tablets, foreign cigarettes, areca nuts, arms, ammunition, and exotic animals along with their parts.
These drugs primarily enter India from Myanmar via illegal routes in Mizoram and Manipur, before being trafficked to other northeastern and Indian states, as well as neighboring countries, particularly Bangladesh.
