In a significant escalation of its war on narcotics, the Mizoram government has decided to prolong its flagship anti-drug operation along the volatile Myanmar border. The state's central committee of the Young Mizo Association (YMA), in a high-level meeting with key ministers, has agreed to extend 'Operation Jericho' until March 2026.
A Decisive Move Against Border Trafficking
The operation, which was initially launched on September 1 and was scheduled to conclude on December 31 this year, has been deemed too critical to stop. Led by Home Minister K Sapdanga and Excise & Narcotics Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar, the meeting concluded that the drive targeting drug trafficking routes from Myanmar must continue. Home Minister Sapdanga declared the operation "extremely successful" based on intelligence and field reports, but warned against any slackening in vigilance. "There is no room for complacency," he stressed, highlighting the need to maintain the hard-won momentum.
Tangible Impact and Evolving Challenges
The ministers and YMA leaders presented concrete evidence of the operation's effectiveness. Excise & Narcotics Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar pointed to a major disruption in the local illicit drug market. The price of heroin has skyrocketed due to a severe shortage, directly attributable to the intensified border vigilance. However, he also noted a tactical shift by traffickers, with changes in entry points and smuggling routes, underscoring the necessity for continued and adaptive operations.
Central YMA President R Lalngheta pledged a more aggressive phase in the community fight. Plans include rounding up drug addicts in the state capital, Aizawl, for rehabilitation. He emphasized enhanced coordination between the powerful civil society organization, the YMA, and the state government machinery to create a seamless front against the drug menace.
Security for Festivities and Rehabilitation Plans
The high-level meeting also addressed security concerns for the upcoming Christmas and New Year festivities, a period often exploited for increased smuggling. Concrete measures were discussed to monitor drugs and liquor at key transit points like train stations. A major focus was on rehabilitation, with plans to send addicts to the Tawngtai Bethel Camping Centre (TBCC) for treatment and recovery.
The meeting saw participation from top officials including Home Secretary Vanlalmawia, IGP (Headquarters) H Ramthlengliana, Joint Secretary for Home PC Lalduhthlanga, Commissioner of Excise & Narcotics Z Lalhmangaiha, and central YMA office bearers, signaling a whole-of-government and society approach to the crisis.
