Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Wednesday said drug traffickers have begun rerouting through Saitual district after the government tightened enforcement in Champhai, long considered a major smuggling corridor.
Speaking during a discussion on the Governor’s address in the Assembly, Lalduhoma said the state has intensified its fight against narcotics and illegal trade along the 510-km international border with Myanmar.
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Smuggling Routes Shift From Champhai
The porous border with Myanmar touches six Mizoram districts—Champhai district, Saitual district, Lawngtlai district, Siaha district, Serchhip district, and Hnahthial district.
Officials earlier identified Champhai as a key entry point for heroin and other narcotics. However, recent crackdowns have disrupted trafficking networks in the district. As a result, smugglers have reportedly shifted operations toward Saitual.
The Chief Minister said the Home Department is now focusing on sealing these emerging routes. Authorities have stepped up surveillance and patrols in vulnerable stretches.
Core Committee Boosts Intelligence Sharing
To strengthen coordination, the state has formed a core committee comprising the Assam Rifles, the Indian Army, the Border Security Force, and the Special Intelligence Branch (SIB).
Lalduhoma said agencies now share intelligence in real time. This coordination has accelerated operations and improved their effectiveness. Joint action has helped authorities intercept consignments and dismantle trafficking networks more quickly.
Operation Jericho Targets Border Villages
In September last year, the government launched “Operation Jericho” in coordination with the Young Mizo Association. The campaign targeted 20 villages along the international border.
The drive resulted in the dismantling of several trafficking networks in Champhai. Officials believe the sustained crackdown forced smugglers to explore alternate routes in neighbouring districts.
The Chief Minister emphasised that enforcement agencies will continue to adapt to these shifting tactics.
Major Heroin Seizure in Saitual
Highlighting enforcement success, Lalduhoma referred to a major operation in the Keifang area of Saitual district. State police seized 15 kg of heroin last year, which he described as the largest single seizure in Mizoram.
He said stricter enforcement has reduced supply in the market. Consequently, heroin prices have increased. Reports also suggest that some peddlers have begun adulterating drugs due to limited availability.
Monitoring in Aizawl Strengthened
Meanwhile, the central anti-drug squads of the Young Mizo Association have divided Aizawl into 10 zones. This move aims to tighten monitoring and prevent the spread of narcotics within the state capital.
Authorities believe community participation plays a crucial role in tackling drug abuse. The government continues to work closely with civil society groups to raise awareness and strengthen surveillance.
Narcotics Worth Rs 1,047 Crore Seized
Earlier, Governor Vijay Kumar Singh stated in his address that agencies seized drugs worth Rs 1,047 crore during 2025–26.
He also reported that the Excise and Narcotics Department confiscated 487 kg of narcotics and arrested 652 individuals during the current financial year.
The Chief Minister reiterated that the government remains committed to curbing drug trafficking and protecting youth from addiction. As smugglers attempt to alter routes, enforcement agencies plan to respond with stronger coordination and sustained vigilance along the Myanmar border.
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