Aizawl, Jan 19 (IANS) The Assam Rifles have seized highly addictive methamphetamine tablets valued at over Rs 28.17 crore by arresting a drug peddler in Mizoram, officials said on Monday.

A defence spokesman said that, acting on credible intelligence inputs related to narcotics trafficking near the India-Myanmar border, Assam Rifles conducted an operation at Ngur areas in the bordering Champhai district on Sunday. During the operation, unusual movement was detected near the suspected location involving a Bolero pickup vehicle.

The spokesman said that a prompt and thorough search resulted in the recovery of 9.391 kg of Methamphetamine tablets, a highly dangerous psychotropic substance, which was concealed in the spare tyre of the vehicle. The estimated market value of the recovered narcotic is Rs 28.17 crore, the official said.

The seized contraband, along with the apprehended individual identified as Shah Alam, was handed over to the Police Department, Champhai, for detailed investigation and further legal action under applicable laws.

An Assam Rifles statement said that the swift and decisive action by Assam Rifles demonstrates their steadfast commitment and vigilance in curbing drug trafficking activities. This operation reinforces the ongoing collective efforts to protect the youth of Mizoram from the adverse effects of narcotics and maintain peace and security in the region, it said.

In a separate incident, based on specific intelligence received from own sources regarding movement of illegal foreign currency, a Mobile Vehicle Check Post (MVCP) was established by Assam Rifles in Lungbun areas in Siaha district of Mizoram.

The para-military troops intercepted a suspicious vehicle, a Mahindra Yodha, at a road junction in Lungbun village and after a thorough search, led to the recovery of Myanmar currencies, Kyat amounting to 1,40,82,000 (nearly Rs 1.40 crore).

One individual involved in the illegal transportation was also apprehended. The recovered foreign currency, along with the apprehended individual, has been handed over to the police authorities for further legal proceedings.

Mizoram shares a 510-km unfenced border with Myanmar and a 318-km porous mountainous border with Bangladesh. Myanmar’s Chin state is a major hub for the smuggling of drugs, exotic wildlife and other contraband through six Mizoram districts, Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual and Serchhip.

–IANS

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