The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended three men from Mizoram, alleging their involvement in a trans-border arms and ammunition trafficking syndicate.
The arrests, made on Friday, are part of the agency’s ongoing probe into illegal transborder weapons trade in the north-eastern region, an official statement confirmed on Saturday.
The accused, identified as Lalrinchhunga, Vanlaldailova, and Lalmuanpuia, were taken into custody following extensive raids at six locations across Mizoram, including Mammit, Serchip, and Aizawl districts. One of the targeted sites was a gunhouse, the NIA said.
“A large number of weapons, ammunition, explosives, tools for weapons manufacturing, digital devices, and incriminating materials were seized during the searches,” the statement read.
These operations are linked to a case registered by the NIA on December 26, 2023, which centres on arms and explosives trafficking in the Northeast.
The arrested men were allegedly connected to previously apprehended suspects, including Lalngaihawma and Solomona, also known as Hminga or Lalmithanga, who were charge-sheeted in July and November 2024, respectively.
The agency launched its investigation after receiving intelligence that certain Mizoram-based entities were operating a syndicate engaged in trafficking arms, ammunition, and explosives in the region.
The statement further revealed that the network’s activities extended beyond Mizoram to other northeastern states.
The NIA reiterated its commitment to unearthing the larger conspiracy behind the illicit trade, vowing to intensify efforts to dismantle the syndicate.
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