Champhai, June 13, 2025: A significant joint operation by Assam Rifles personnel and customs officials has led to the apprehension of six individuals and the recovery of smuggled areca nuts valued at a staggering Rs 1.81 crore in Mizoram’s Champhai district. The coordinated effort underscores the ongoing vigilance against illegal trade in the region.
Acting on precise intelligence, a combined team from Assam Rifles and customs initiated an area domination patrol in Mualkawi, located in east Mizoram’s Champhai district, during the early hours of Thursday. Their diligent efforts bore fruit when they successfully intercepted six suspects.
A thorough search of the individuals and their belongings led to the discovery of 386 bags, containing a substantial 30,880 kilograms of smuggled areca nuts. The estimated market value of this illicit consignment stands at Rs 1.81 crore, marking a considerable blow to smuggling networks operating in the area.
Following their apprehension, the accused individuals, along with the seized areca nuts, were promptly handed over to the Customs Preventive Force in Champhai. Further legal proceedings under relevant acts are now underway, as authorities continue their probe into the origins and intended destination of the contraband.
This latest success follows another major interception earlier this month by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) near Aizawl. In that operation, officials seized 16 kg of methamphetamine tablets, valued at Rs 16 crore in the international illicit market, from a vehicle on the Aizawl–Champhai road. The drugs were ingeniously concealed in modified chambers within the vehicle, leading to the arrest of two individuals under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. These consecutive busts highlight a concerted effort by law enforcement agencies to curb both smuggling and drug trafficking activities in the Northeastern state.
Also read: Imphal Airport Enforces 10km Laser Light Ban for Enhanced Flight Safety