Aizawl (Mizoram), January 23 (HBTV): In a joint operation, Assam Rifles and Mizoram's Hnahthial Police seized 260 cases of foreign-origin cigarettes valued at INR 3.38 crore from the General Area Tuichang Bridge in Lawngtlai district, Mizoram. A resident of Champhai was arrested in connection with the seizure, and the consignment was handed over to the Hnahthial Police for further legal proceedings. The operation concluded successfully on January 20, according to an official press release.

The persistent smuggling of contraband items remains a major concern for both Mizoram and India. Assam Rifles, known as the 'Sentinels of the Northeast,' have intensified their anti-smuggling operations to curb such illegal activities and target the masterminds behind these trades.

In a previous operation, Assam Rifles intercepted a narcotics shipment in the General Area of Salbagan, West Tripura. They confiscated 60,000 Yaba tablets, valued at approximately INR 12 crore in the international market. Two individuals, identified as Kanai Das (36) and Kishan Kumar Sarkar (32), were arrested and handed over to the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) for further investigation.

Additionally, on January 18, Assam Rifles, in coordination with Mizoram's Excise and Narcotics Department, recovered Heroin No. 4 weighing 7.16 grams and valued at INR 5.01 lakh in Siaha town, Siaha district. Two individuals were apprehended during this operation.

These successful operations underscore the Assam Rifles' commitment to combating narcotics trafficking and safeguarding the region from the growing menace of drug abuse. (ANI)