Manipur: Heroin worth Rs 8.5 crore seized, two arrested in joint op

In a joint operation in Churachandpur, Manipur, the NCB, Assam Rifles, and police seized 4.267 kg of heroin worth Rs 8.5 crore. Two individuals were arrested, and two wireless sets were recovered. The contraband originated from Myanmar.

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Imphal Zonal Unit, in close coordination with the Assam Rifles and Manipur Police, conducted a successful joint operation on Tuesday in a remote area near Khuakhual in Churachandpur district, Manipur. During the operation, a Gypsy vehicle and a Kenbo motorcycle were intercepted. A thorough search led to the recovery and seizure of 374 soap cases containing heroin, weighing approximately 4.267 kg.

The estimated international market value of the seized contraband is around Rs 8.5 crore, according to a press note released on Tuesday. Officials said two individuals involved in the trafficking have been arrested. Two wireless communication sets, allegedly used by the accused to coordinate the transportation of the contraband, were also recovered.

Drug Trafficking Along Indo-Myanmar Border

Preliminary investigations indicate that the contraband originated from Haichin in Myanmar and was destined for Churachandpur in Manipur. The seizure underscores the persistent challenge of drug trafficking along the Indo-Myanmar border, a route frequently exploited by transnational drug syndicates, the press note stated.

The NCB has been intensifying operations across the northeastern region, particularly along the Indo-Myanmar border, to dismantle drug trafficking networks. This latest seizure adds to a series of successful operations in Manipur, reflecting the agency's sustained efforts to curb the inflow of narcotics and disrupt supply chains.

Sustained Efforts Towards a Drug-Free State

In recent times, multiple cases registered by the NCB have led to significant seizures and arrests, dealing a major blow to organised drug trafficking networks in the region.

In 2025, drugs worth Rs 335 crore were seized in Manipur, while seizures worth Rs 75 crore have been reported so far in 2026.

These efforts align with the Government of India's vision of making Manipur a drug-free state, with a strong emphasis on inter-agency coordination, intelligence-driven operations, and strict enforcement against traffickers.

Further investigation is underway to identify and apprehend other members of the network and to trace both forward and backward linkages.

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