Mizoram Police seized heroin and methamphetamine worth over ₹8 crore in three separate anti-drug operations. Four people were arrested during the operations and investigations are underway in the cases under the NDPS Act.
Aizawl: Mizoram Police have achieved a major success in their ongoing campaign to curb drug trafficking in Northeast India. During three separate anti-drug operations conducted in the state on August 1, police seized heroin and methamphetamine worth more than ₹8 crore. Four suspects were arrested in these operations and cases were registered against them under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Police officials say this action is considered a major blow to the drug smuggling network operating in the state’s border areas. Detailed investigations are underway in all cases to uncover the entire smuggling network.
First operation: Heroin recovered from vehicle in Champhai
The first operation was carried out by the Champhai Special Task Force (STF) with the assistance of recruited constables. Police stopped and searched a Sumo vehicle heading towards Aizawl at the Khanakon check gate at around 11:30 am. During the search, 118 grams of heroin packed in 10 soap cartons was recovered from the vehicle. According to officials, its estimated value in the international illegal market is around ₹23.6 lakh. In this case, 27-year-old Vanlalmuana, a resident of Shanmyo in the Tahan region of Myanmar, was arrested. Police have registered a case against the accused under the NDPS Act and started investigation.
Second operation: Large consignment of methamphetamine seized
On the same day, at around 1:30 pm, the Champhai Special Task Force conducted another major operation. Police stopped and searched a Tata truck traveling from Champhai to Aizawl. The vehicle contained 9.796 kilograms of methamphetamine, packed in 10 bundles. The estimated market value of the seized drugs is estimated to be approximately ₹7.83 crore. 32-year-old Vanlalruatsaka, a resident of Melbuk village in Champhai district, was arrested. Police also seized the vehicle, and a detailed investigation is underway.
Third Operation: Two Arrested with Heroin in Zemabok
The third operation was conducted by a team from the Special Narcotics Police Station in the Zemabok area. Police recovered 241.21 grams of suspected heroin packed in 20 soap boxes. Two individuals, Hussain Ahmed Laskar (23) and Noor Ahmed Laskar (34), both residents of Assam’s Cachar district, were arrested at the scene. Police also seized a Mahindra Bolero pickup truck, which was allegedly being used to transport the drugs. A case has been registered against both accused under relevant sections of the NDPS Act, and an investigation has been initiated.
Increased surveillance on border routes
Mizoram shares an international border with Myanmar and Bangladesh, making the region long considered vulnerable to drug trafficking. In recent years, police and other security agencies have increased surveillance along border areas, national highways, and key checkpoints. With the help of modern technology, intelligence gathering, and joint operations, smuggling networks are being continuously cracked down. Experts believe that Mizoram’s geographical location makes it crucial to maintain vigilance.
Action will be taken under the NDPS Act.
In all three cases, police have filed charges against the accused under the NDPS Act. The recovered drugs will be sent for examination and forensic testing to confirm their quality and nature. Investigating agencies are also attempting to determine the source of the seized drugs and their intended destination. If the investigation confirms a larger interstate or international network, further arrests may be made.
Continued crackdown on drug networks
The Mizoram Police have been conducting a sustained campaign against drug trafficking for some time. They say preventing the state from becoming a drug transit route is a priority. To this end, coordination with various security agencies has been increased and regular raids are being conducted based on intelligence. The police aim is not only to arrest smugglers but also to dismantle the entire network.
Impact on society and youth
Experts say that drug trafficking is not only a law and order problem, but also a serious social and health challenge. Drug abuse affects young people the most and threatens to increase crime, health problems, and social instability. Therefore, effective action against drug trafficking is considered vital in the interests of society.