Champhai (Mizoram) [India], November 7 (HBTV): Assam Rifles, in collaboration with the Excise and Narcotics Department and the Customs Preventive Force, recovered heroin and illegal areca nuts worth INR 1.01 crore in Champhai district, Mizoram, and apprehended three individuals, including one Myanmar national, Assam Rifles said in a press release.

"Assam Rifles, in two separate operations along with the Excise & Narcotics Department and Customs Preventive Force, Champhai, recovered 128.2 grams of heroin and 1,710 kg of illegal areca nuts worth INR 1,01,71,000 and apprehended three individuals: Nangkhawkhupa (30), Ruatfela (36), both residents of Aizawl, Mizoram, and LT Siama (39), a resident of Myanmar, in the general area of Zote, Champhai district on November 5," stated the Inspector General of Assam Rifles (East) in a press release.

The operations were carried out by a combined team of Assam Rifles, the Excise and Narcotics Department, and the Customs Preventive Force, Champhai, based on specific intelligence in the general areas of Zote and Hmunhmeltha, Champhai.

The entire consignment and the apprehended individuals were handed over to the Excise and Narcotics Department, Champhai, for further legal proceedings.

The ongoing smuggling of contraband items remains a significant concern for the state of Mizoram and India. Assam Rifles, rightly called the 'Sentinels of the Northeast,' have intensified their efforts against illegal smuggling and are also increasing efforts to identify and apprehend the kingpins behind the smuggling of contraband items in Mizoram.   

(ANI)