AIZAWL — In one of the most extensive multi-agency crackdowns in recent weeks, security forces in Mizoram intercepted illicit drugs and smuggled dry areca nuts valued at over ₹14.2 crore across four separate operations.
The coordinated raids, conducted between July 24 and July 26, resulted in the arrest of seven individuals, including two foreign nationals from neighboring Myanmar, an official confirmed on Monday.
The joint law enforcement team comprised personnel from the Assam Rifles, Mizoram Police, the Excise and Narcotics Department, the Customs Preventive Force, and sister intelligence agencies.
Major Methamphetamine Bust at Sairang
The largest single recovery took place on July 24 in Sairang. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, Assam Rifles and Mizoram Police intercepted a syndicate transporting a massive stash of methamphetamine tablets — commonly referred to as the "crazy drug."
Security personnel seized 2.18 kilograms of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of ₹6.57 crore. Four suspects were taken into custody on the spot, while two vehicles and four mobile phones used in the trafficking run were confiscated. The accused and contraband were handed over to the Sairang Police Station for legal proceedings under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Heroin Shipments Intercepted Near Border Belts
Heroin trafficking operations along border corridors were also targeted in two separate strikes:
Saitual District Raid (July 25): Security forces stopped a trafficking attempt at Ngopa, situated near the Manipur border. Troops recovered 67 grams of heroin cleverly concealed inside six soap cases. The seized stash carries an estimated international market value of ₹50.25 lakh. One suspect was arrested, and the case was transferred to the Saitual Police Station.
Siaha District Operation (July 26): Based on targeted intelligence from the Excise and Narcotics Department, Assam Rifles intercepted a shipment at Siasi village near the Myanmar border. Officers recovered 33 packets containing 401 grams of Heroin No. 4, valued at ₹3 crore. Two Myanmar nationals were apprehended at the scene along with two mobile devices.
Massive Areca Nut Smuggling Attempt Foiled
Alongside narcotics, security agencies dealt a heavy blow to commercial contraband smuggling along the border. On July 25, a joint team from the Assam Rifles and the Customs Preventive Force (Champhai) intercepted a commercial transport operation on the Champhai–Khawzawl road.
Inspectors uncovered 501 bags of illegally imported areca nuts weighing 40,080 kilograms (40.08 tonnes). The seized agricultural consignment, valued at ₹4.12 crore, was turned over to customs authorities for further investigation and legal action.
