Assam Rifles seized methamphetamine tablets worth Rs 13.33 crore in Mizoram and arrested a Myanmarese trafficker. The force also recovered illicit liquor in Manipur, highlighting intensified operations against cross-border smuggling along the porous India-Myanmar border.
In a major strike against cross-border narcotics trafficking, Assam Rifles seized a significant quantity of methamphetamine tablets valued at over Rs 13.33 crore near the India-Myanmar border and arrested a Myanmarese drug peddler involved in the illicit trade. Officials confirmed the development on Wednesday, underscoring the persistent threat of transnational drug smuggling in the northeastern region.
According to a defence spokesperson, the operation was initiated based on specific intelligence inputs indicating active narcotics movement along the border. Acting swiftly on the information, Assam Rifles troops launched a carefully coordinated operation on Tuesday afternoon along the World Bank Road at Zokhawthar in Mizoram’s Champhai district, a known corridor frequently exploited by transnational drug syndicates.
During the combing operation, security personnel noticed suspicious movement in the area. Their prompt and precise action resulted in the recovery of 4.444 kg of methamphetamine tablets, a highly addictive psychotropic drug widely trafficked across Southeast Asia. The seized tablets, commonly known as Yaba or “party tablets,” carry a high market value in international illegal drug markets and are banned in India due to their dangerous effects and potential for abuse.
The defence spokesperson further stated that the methamphetamine consignment was smuggled from Myanmar and was likely intended for distribution across multiple northeastern states, where narcotics networks operate through well-coordinated cross-border channels. The seized drugs were immediately handed over to the Excise and Narcotics Department, Champhai, for a detailed investigation and further legal proceedings as per existing laws.
During the operation, a Myanmar national identified as Bawi Kanthanga was apprehended. He is believed to be part of a larger drug-trafficking chain operating from Myanmar’s Chin State, which has become a major hub for smuggling various contraband items, including synthetic drugs, heroin, exotic wildlife species, and other illegal products. Authorities suspect that the arrested individual may have links to organised drug syndicates that use the porous borders for smuggling operations.
Officials praised the timely and decisive response by Assam Rifles, stating that the successful operation reflects the force’s unwavering vigilance and commitment to curbing drug trafficking and preventing the spread of harmful narcotics in Mizoram and adjoining states. The spokesperson added that the relentless efforts of security forces play a crucial role in safeguarding the region’s youth from the devastating effects of drug addiction.
“This operation further strengthens collective efforts to maintain peace and security in the region and sends a strong message to cross-border criminal elements,” the spokesperson said.
Separate Operation in Manipur Yields Illicit Liquor Worth Rs 19.32 Lakh
In another successful operation, Assam Rifles recovered a major consignment of illicit liquor worth Rs 19.32 lakh from the Bijang area in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Tuesday evening. Acting on credible intelligence inputs from internal sources, the force launched the operation to counter illegal liquor trafficking routes between Jiribam and Imphal.
A joint mobile vehicle check post was established on the National Highway in coordination with the Manipur Police. While conducting inspections, troops intercepted a suspicious truck headed toward Imphal. A detailed search led to the recovery of a large quantity of illicit liquor concealed inside the vehicle.
The seizure highlights the continued attempts by smugglers to exploit vulnerable stretches of highways and forested routes for transporting contraband across state lines. Security officials stated that strict vigilance and regular anti-smuggling operations are essential to maintain law and order in the state.
Porous Borders Fuel Smuggling Activities
Mizoram shares a 510-km border with Myanmar—much of it unfenced—along with 318 km of unfenced border with Bangladesh, making it highly susceptible to illegal cross-border activities. Similarly, Manipur shares 398 km of unfenced border with Myanmar. These porous boundaries, combined with long stretches of difficult terrain, are frequently exploited by drug traffickers, arms smugglers, and various criminal groups.
Myanmar’s Chin State, which borders Mizoram and Manipur, has emerged as a significant hub for illegal trade due to the ongoing political turmoil and lack of effective enforcement mechanisms. Smuggling routes pass through several districts in both northeastern states, including Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, Serchhip in Mizoram and Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, Chandel, Kamjong, and Ukhrul in Manipur.
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Security agencies in the region continue to intensify operations to dismantle these networks, with increased surveillance, coordinated intelligence sharing, and strict enforcement along vulnerable border points.
