Imphal, July 21: In a significant crackdown on cross-border narcotics trafficking, the Assam Rifles recovered over 50 kilograms of opium and large amounts of cash in Indian and foreign currencies during an operation in Manipur’s Chandel district.
The operation, based on specific intelligence inputs, was carried out on July 16 near the Sajik Tampak Mobile Vehicle Check Post, a sensitive location along the Indo-Myanmar border known for smuggling activities. During the search, security forces discovered two abandoned motorcycles believed to have been used by traffickers attempting to evade detection.
Upon inspection of the motorcycles and surrounding area, the Assam Rifles personnel uncovered 50.5 kg of opium, estimated to be worth ₹2.52 crore in the international market. In addition to the narcotics, ₹2 lakh in Indian currency and approximately 1.24 crore Myanmar Kyat were also seized.
Officials suspect the consignment was being smuggled across the porous Indo-Myanmar border, a region frequently exploited for illegal drug trafficking due to its challenging terrain and limited surveillance.
The seized contraband and currency were subsequently handed over to the Chakpikarong Police Station for further investigation and necessary legal proceedings.
The Assam Rifles reiterated their commitment to curbing the drug menace in the Northeast and strengthening border security to prevent such illegal activities.
