Daijiworld Media Network - Imphal

Imphal, Apr 28: In a major anti-narcotics operation, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), in coordination with the Assam Rifles and Manipur Police, has arrested two drug peddlers and seized 4.267 kg of heroin valued at Rs 8.5 crore in Manipur.

The joint operation was carried out in a remote area near Khuakhual in Churachandpur district, a region close to the international border with Myanmar. Officials described the raid as a significant breakthrough in efforts to curb cross-border drug trafficking.

During the operation, security forces intercepted a vehicle and a motorcycle, leading to the recovery of 374 soap cases filled with heroin. The seized consignment weighed approximately 4.267 kg and was intended for distribution within the region.

Authorities also recovered wireless communication devices allegedly used by the accused to coordinate transportation and delivery of the drugs. Preliminary investigations indicate that the heroin originated from Haichin in Myanmar, with Churachandpur identified as the destination.

Officials highlighted that the Indo-Myanmar border continues to be a vulnerable corridor exploited by transnational drug networks. The NCB has been intensifying intelligence-based operations in the northeastern region to dismantle such trafficking modules.

The agency noted that drug seizures in Manipur reached Rs 335 crore in 2025, with an additional Rs 75 crore worth of narcotics already seized in 2026, reflecting sustained enforcement efforts.

Authorities said further investigations are underway to identify other members of the network and trace both supply and distribution chains. The crackdown aligns with the government’s broader objective of making Manipur a drug-free state through stronger inter-agency coordination and targeted operations.