Mizoram seizes $43.5 million in drugs in six months, Myanmar nationals among 312 arrested

Drugs and psychotropic substances worth 414.66 crore rupees (approx. US$43.5 million) were seized in Mizoram State, India, during the six-month period from 1 January to 30 June this year, the Mizoram Police announced. Under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 219 cases were registered, resulting in the arrest of 312 individuals, including Myanmar nationals, according to the statement. Heroin and methamphetamine comprised the majority of the seizures, including over 315 kilogrammes of methamphetamine valued at over 252 crore rupees (approx. US$26.4 million), and over 34 kilogrammes of heroin valued at nearly 70 crore rupees (approx. US$7.3 million). Fifty-five foreigners were implicated in the cases. Significant quantities of crystal meth, morphine, raw opium, cannabis, codeine, and alprazolam tablets were also confiscated, the police said. A Myanmar national residing in Mizoram told Mizzima that whenever local media reports the arrest of Myanmar citizens on drug charges, the community faces unwelcome scrutiny and criticism from local residents. “Heroin and methamphetamine constitute the majority of the seized drugs, and Myanmar nationals are indeed involved in these cases. It would be best for everyone if our people exercise the utmost caution and restraint,” he said. The Mizoram Police said the seizures underscore the urgent need for intensified anti-drug enforcement, urging collaboration among the government, civil society organizations, and the public. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma separately said drugs from Myanmar — specifically heroin and methamphetamine tablets — are continuously smuggled in through the Manipur and Mizoram borders. Smugglers are reportedly employing a range of tactics, including exploiting women and children to conceal drugs inside toys, pockets, and fake plaster casts meant for broken limbs. Authorities in Assam have incinerated seized drugs valued at over 471 crore rupees (approx. US$49.4 million) so far this year, with officials pledging to accelerate anti-drug campaigns.