ASSAM RIFLES, MANIPUR POLICE & CRPF JOINTLY SEIZE ₹76 CR DRUG HAUL IN JIRIBAM DISTRICT

One of the largest narcotics recoveries in recent times from Barak River route

Jiribam, Manipur, 20 July 2025: In a major breakthrough against cross-border drug trafficking, Assam Rifles, in a meticulously coordinated operation with Manipur Police and CRPF, intercepted a drug-laden boat on the Barak River, resulting in the seizure of heroin and methamphetamine tablets worth approximately ₹76 crore.

Acting on credible intelligence inputs, the joint team launched a boat patrolling operation along a sensitive stretch of the Barak River between Chaudharykhal and Savomphai, bordering Jiribam and Phezarwal districts. During the course of the operation, a suspicious boat was sighted. When challenged, the operator attempted to evade capture but was swiftly apprehended after a brief pursuit.

Upon inspection of the vessel, officials discovered 616 soap cases filled with heroin, along with 50,000 methamphetamine tablets — collectively valued at nearly ₹76 crore in the illicit drug market. The apprehended individual, identified as a resident of Silchar, Assam, has been taken into custody for further interrogation and legal proceedings.

This seizure marks one of the most significant narcotics recoveries in the region in recent years, highlighting the persistent and evolving threat of drug trafficking along riverine routes.

Assam Rifles, known for its vigilant counter-narcotics operations in the Northeast, reaffirmed its commitment to combat the menace of drug smuggling. “This operation underscores our resolve to protect the region from the growing scourge of narcotics. Such joint efforts with state and central agencies are essential in maintaining vigilance along vulnerable corridors,” said a senior Assam Rifles official.

Over the years, Barak River has emerged as a strategically sensitive corridor often exploited by drug syndicates to funnel contraband from across the border. The operation is expected to deliver a critical setback to the network responsible and act as a strong deterrent to future trafficking attempts.

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