The successful crackdown by Mizoram police on the drug mafia has come as part of the ongoing “War on Drugs” campaign, and they highlight the relentless efforts of Mizoram Police to combat this menace and ensure a safe environment, especially in the lead-up to the General Legislative Assembly Election of Mizoram in 2023.
In a major victory against international drug smuggling, on October 4, 2023, the Aizawl District Special Branch (DSB) team intercepted a Tata Intra vehicle (registration number MZ01-7001) at Zemabawk East. The vigilant police team acted swiftly, resulting in the seizure of a staggering 11.6 kilograms of Crystal Methamphetamine valued at Rs 34 crores. The Myanmar national, Ropianga (aged 37), responsible for transporting these drugs, was apprehended. A case has been registered (Case No. 676/23 dated 4th October 2023) under the NDPS Act, 1985, and the Foreigners Act, 1946, for further investigation and legal action.
Mizoram Police have emphasised the importance of public support and collaboration with civil society and other stakeholders to combat drug smuggling effectively. They encourage the community to assist law enforcement agencies by reporting any illegal activities related to drugs.
Lady Drug Smuggler Apprehended at Aizawl Airport
In a separate operation conducted on October 3, 2023, at Lengpui Airport, Mizoram Police’s Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) seized a rare and substantial quantity of Methamphetamine, commonly known as Crystal Meth. The contraband weighed 10.4 kilograms and had an estimated value of approximately Rs 31 crores in the international market. The drugs were concealed in a suitcase and intended to be transported to Delhi from Myanmar by a lady drug smuggler identified as Lalremthangi (aged 38). The contraband was detected during a routine security X-ray baggage inspection, leading to the immediate arrest of the suspect. A case (Case No. N48/23 dated October 3 2023) has been registered under the NDPS Act and Foreigners Act.
Initial investigations revealed that the accused, Lalremthangi, is a Myanmar citizen who resides and works in a spa in Delhi. She had recently visited Myanmar and was in transit through Aizawl, carrying a substantial quantity of drugs for further distribution. This arrest is considered one of the most significant and rarest drug busts in recent times. It’s worth noting that just the previous month, the ANTF in Aizawl had seized approximately 3 kilograms of the same rare drug, valued at around Rs. 9 crores in the international market.
Continued Efforts and Collaboration to Combat Drug Smuggling
Investigations into both cases are currently underway, led by officials from the ANTF unit. This success follows a joint operation conducted in August, where the Special Narcotic Police Station and the 2nd Assam Rifles, Aizawl team, recovered and seized 256 grams of heroin from the illegal possession of Vanzalala (aged 35) and Lalthanmawii (aged 42), both of Chhipchang, Myanmar, in the Hlimen area of Aizawl.
These developments underscore the commitment of Mizoram Police to disrupt drug supply chains while highlighting the need for active support and cooperation from the public and all stakeholders in the fight against drug smuggling.
Mizoram’s battle against international drug smugglers continues as security forces, led by the Mizoram Police, make significant strides in dismantling drug trafficking networks. The recent seizures of Crystal Methamphetamine worth Rs 34 crores and Rs 31 crores in two separate operations demonstrate the authorities’ dedication to maintaining law and order.
As Mizoram prepares for the General Legislative Assembly Election in 2023, these successes contribute to a safer and more secure environment for its citizens. The Mizoram Police urge the public and civil society to play an active role in this ongoing battle against drug smuggling by reporting any suspicious activities. Together, they aim to make Mizoram a drug-free state and set an example for others to follow.
