Mizoram has recorded its highest-ever drug seizure haul, with authorities destroying contraband worth ₹465 crore in Champhai district, spotlighting a sharp escalation in enforcement and drug trafficking along the Myanmar border.
Officials said the narcotics, seized between March and October 2025 across Champhai, a key transit corridor, were disposed of on Tuesday after clearance from the district court. The scale of the destruction marks the largest single disposal exercise in the state, reflecting what authorities described as an unprecedented crackdown on trafficking networks.
The destroyed stockpile included 35.85 kg of heroin valued at ₹71.70 crore, 490.89 kg of methamphetamine worth ₹392.71 crore, and 4.74 kg of alprazolam valued at ₹94.8 lakh, taking the total estimated value to ₹465.36 crore.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Aaquib said the latest operation far exceeded last year’s destruction of drugs worth ₹117 crore, calling it a “major achievement” indicative of intensified enforcement efforts.
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The record haul comes amid a steady rise in seizures and arrests in the border district. Champhai police registered 147 cases under the NDPS Act in 2025, leading to the arrest of 260 persons, including 58 Myanmar nationals. The seizures last year included significant quantities of heroin, methamphetamine, crystal meth, and other substances, pointing to the district’s growing role in cross-border drug trafficking.
The crackdown has continued into 2026. Between January 1 and April 20, police registered 47 NDPS cases and arrested 76 persons, including 22 Myanmar nationals. During the same period, seizures included 8.266 kg of heroin, 76.245 kg of methamphetamine and 10.259 kg of crystal methamphetamine.
Aaquib stressed that sustained enforcement must be complemented by public awareness to curb drug abuse, particularly among the youth. He also called for cooperation from residents in identifying those involved in illicit trade.
“As Champhai grows in popularity as a tourist destination, it is essential to maintain a clean and safe environment so that visitors see the beauty of the district rather than the shadow of the drug trade,” he said.
Bordering Myanmar, Champhai has emerged as a critical frontline in India’s battle against narcotics trafficking, with authorities stepping up surveillance and enforcement in response to the rising volume of seizures.
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