Mizoram police busts international arms smuggling network; 10,000 AK series cartridges, guns seized

Aizawl: Police in Mizoram uncover the largest international arms trafficking network between Bangladesh and Myanmar. The arrest of the top rebel leader and seizure of a huge amount of ammunition brought significant success to the anti-insurgency operation led by Mizoram police with input from central agencies. In what is reportedly the largest arms haul in the northeastern state, Mizoram police have thwarted a transnational weaponry trade between insurgents from Bangladesh and Myanmar.

A shipment of AK series rifles, more than 10,000 rounds of ammunition, and at least 13 magazines were found after the Mizoram Police, working with a central intelligence agency, detained a top leader of the Chin National Front, which is based in Myanmar, in the state’s Saithah village in Mamit district. In a significant operation, the Mizoram Police, working with a sister intelligence agency, successfully seized a significant amount of ammunition and weapons in the Saithah village fringes, which is within the jurisdiction of the West Phaileng Police Station in the Mamit District. One of Mizoram’s biggest arms seizures, this operation serves as a stark reminder to the area’s criminal operations conducted across the international borders by different militant groups.

Six AK-47 weapons, 10,050 AK series rifle cartridges, and thirteen magazines were among the notable recoveries made during the operation. This capture has eliminated a significant threat to regional peace and stability. This arms seizure has resulted in the arrest of five suspects. One prominent leader of the Chin National Front (CNF), an insurgent organization with its headquarters in Myanmar, is among those in custody. An important accomplishment in the state of Mizoram’s counter-insurgency efforts is the capture of such a well-known militant leader. The police have not disclosed the identity of the arrested militants for further investigation of the network.

The United People’s Democratic Front (UPDFP), another insurgent group active in Bangladesh’s Chittagong Hill Tracts, and the Chin National Front (CNF), a well-known rebel group from Myanmar, were to trade the seized weapons and ammunition, according to preliminary investigation. This operation underscores the persistent challenges to regional stability and the transnational nature of illicit arms trade. At the Mamit District’s West Phaileng Police Station, Mizoram Police has filed a case. There is an ongoing investigation to break up the weapons smuggling network through the Myanmar border.