Mizoram Excise Department Makes Major Heroin Bust Worth Rs 80 Lakh
In a significant crackdown on narcotics trafficking, the Mizoram Excise and Narcotics Department has seized a substantial quantity of heroin valued at approximately Rs 80 lakh from two individuals hailing from Manipur. The operation took place in Kolasib town, Mizoram, as confirmed by department spokesperson Peter Zohmingthanga on Thursday.
Details of the Seizure and Arrests
According to Zohmingthanga, the confiscated heroin weighed 1.252 kilograms. He provided context on its market value, noting that as per the National Drugs Control Bureau (NCB), 1 kilogram of heroin is estimated to be worth Rs 80 lakh across the country. In the local Aizawl market, the prevailing rate is around Rs 40,000 per 'hawng,' a packet typically containing 12 grams of the illicit substance.
The bust occurred on Wednesday at 2 PM when officials intercepted a vehicle in the Khuangpuilam locality of Kolasib town. The two suspects arrested were identified as Patrick Ramhmingthang, aged 44 from Mualvaiphei in Manipur, and Samson Lalremruat, aged 24 from Parbung in Manipur. Authorities allege that they were transporting the heroin from Manipur with the intent to sell it in the Silchar and Cachar districts of Assam.
Suspects and Legal Proceedings
Notably, one of the accused, Ramhmingthang, has been identified as a serving police official from Manipur, adding a layer of concern to the case. Following their arrest, both individuals were formally charged under Section 21(c) of The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, at the Kolasib Excise and Narcotics Station.
They were subsequently produced before the District and Sessions Court of the Kolasib Judicial District, where legal proceedings are now underway. This incident highlights the ongoing efforts by Mizoram authorities to combat drug trafficking in the region, particularly along inter-state borders.
The seizure underscores the persistent challenges in curbing the flow of narcotics in Northeast India, with Manipur often cited as a source or transit point for such contraband. The involvement of a police official raises questions about internal security and corruption, prompting calls for stricter vigilance and inter-agency cooperation.
Local residents have expressed support for the crackdown, emphasizing the need to protect communities from the devastating effects of drug abuse. The Mizoram Excise and Narcotics Department continues to monitor the situation closely, with further investigations likely to uncover more details about the trafficking network.
