Rs 75-crore Meth seizure in Mizoram; eight arrested in second-largest drug haul

The Mizoram Excise & Narcotics Department, in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and the Border Security Force’s 191 Battalion, seized methamphetamine worth ₹75 crore in Aizawl district on Thursday evening. 

Officials confirmed this to be the second-largest drug haul in the state’s history.

The operation was carried out along National Highway-06A between Keifang and Seling, where vehicles suspected of carrying contraband were intercepted. On inspection, authorities recovered 49.101 kilograms of methamphetamine and 36 grams of heroin concealed inside specially modified compartments of two trucks. Preliminary investigations indicate that the drugs were smuggled in from Myanmar.

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Eight individuals identified as Zoramsiama (25), Lalruatkima (42), Nanglamthanga (20), David Lalhmachhuana (28), T. Chatuanvanlalnghaka (29), Lalramthara (27), Hmangaihzaua (38), and Lalrammuana (29) were apprehended in connection with the seizure.

Four vehicles used in transporting the contraband — a Tata truck (MZ01F-1037), Renault Duster (MZ07-7237), Ashok Leyland truck (MZ06-8810), and a Mahindra Bolero (MZ01Z-8246) — were also seized.

Authorities said the seizure follows a record bust of nearly 100 kilograms of methamphetamine a few years ago, underlining Mizoram’s vulnerability as a major transit point in the region’s drug trafficking network.

The arrested individuals have been booked under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985. If convicted, they face imprisonment ranging from 10 to 20 years along with fines up to ₹2 lakh.