What was seized in Assam and Nagaland worth Rs 11.29 crore?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, Assam and Nagaland authorities seized banned methamphetamine tablets and smuggled foreign-origin cigarettes valued at Rs 11.29 crore. This operation underscores the ongoing battle against drug smuggling and contraband trafficking in the northeastern region of India, particularly from Myanmar.
Key Takeaways
- Massive seizures of banned drugs in Assam and Nagaland.
- Collaboration between Assam Rifles and Nagaland Police.
- Legal action initiated under NDPS Act.
- Concerns over drug trafficking from Myanmar.
- Ongoing efforts to combat contraband smuggling.
Guwahati/Kohima, Sep 6 (NationPress) Banned methamphetamine tablets and smuggled foreign-origin cigarettes worth Rs 11.29 crore have been confiscated in Assam and Nagaland.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reported that over Rs 10 crore worth of highly addictive methamphetamine tablets were seized in the Sribhumi district (Karimganj district), resulting in the arrest of a drug peddler.
The police operation led to the recovery of 70,000 methamphetamine tablets, commonly referred to as 'Yaba' tablets, in a significant anti-narcotics initiative, Sarma noted on his X handle.
Authorities have initiated legal actions under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act 1985. Methamphetamine tablets are classified as a Schedule II substance under the Controlled Substances Act, along with caffeine.
In Nagaland, police found smuggled foreign-origin cigarettes valued at Rs 1.29 crore in the Peren district.
A police spokesperson stated that the Assam Rifles and Nagaland Police, collaborating, intercepted a truck loaded with a substantial consignment of illegally imported foreign-origin cigarettes in the Tening area, seizing the tobacco products. This operation signifies a crucial win in the ongoing battle against contraband smuggling into Nagaland.
The confiscated goods have been referred to the appropriate authorities for further scrutiny and legal action, officials confirmed.
Authorities suspect that both the methamphetamine tablets and the foreign-origin cigarettes were smuggled from Myanmar. The methamphetamine tablets were transported through Mizoram before reaching Assam.
Numerous drugs, particularly the highly addictive methamphetamine tablets, alongside various contraband items, including exotic animals, are frequently trafficked through six districts in Mizoram – Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip – which have a 510 km unfenced border with Myanmar.
From Mizoram, these drugs are further distributed to other regions of the country and internationally, including Bangladesh. Four northeastern states – Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Manipur (398 km), Nagaland (215 km), and Mizoram (510 km) – share a total of 1,643 km of unfenced border with Myanmar, a primary hub for illegal drug trafficking.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the severity of the situation regarding drug trafficking in northeastern India. The recent seizures in Assam and Nagaland highlight the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in curbing the flow of illegal substances from Myanmar. Vigilance and collaborative efforts are crucial in safeguarding our communities.
NationPress
06/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of drugs were seized?
Authorities seized banned methamphetamine tablets and smuggled foreign-origin cigarettes.
What is the estimated value of the seized items?
The total value of the seized items is approximately Rs 11.29 crore.
Where were the drugs confiscated?
The drugs were seized in Assam and Nagaland.
What actions are being taken against the suspects?
Legal proceedings have been initiated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act.
Where do authorities suspect the drugs originated?
The drugs are suspected to have been smuggled from Myanmar.
