Since the announcement of the Lok Sabha election on March 16, 2024, Mizoram Police has intensified efforts to combat the illicit liquor and drug trade in the state. A surge in demand for alcohol and drugs has prompted a state-wide crackdown, resulting in significant seizures and arrests.
From March 16 to April 8, 2024, Mizoram Police seized substantial quantities of contraband, including locally-made liquor (LML), Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL), and drugs. The seizures include 4,773 litres of LML worth Rs. 23,28,000, 2,577 litres of IMFL worth Rs. 41,23,200, 66 litres of BEDC worth Rs. 49,500, and 636 cans of beer worth Rs. 3,18,000. Additionally, law enforcement confiscated 13,340 litres of fermented rice worth Rs. 46,69,000.
In addition to the liquor seizures, significant amounts of drugs were also seized. Mizoram Police confiscated 5.513 kgs of Heroin worth Rs. 1,65,39,000, 26.469 kgs of Methamphetamine worth Rs. 3,44,09,700, and 23.085 kgs of Ganja worth Rs. 1,15,425. A total of 51 cases were registered, and 61 accused persons were arrested in connection with these operations.
The achievements of the District Executive Forces (DEF) during this period are highlighted as follows: in Aizawl, 2,397 litres of LML, 5,440 liters of fermented rice, 609 bottles of IMFL, and 2.940 grams of Heroin were seized. 22 cases were registered, and 24 individuals were arrested. Lunglei Police confiscated 448 litres of LML, 2,100 litres of fermented rice, 271 litres of IMFL, and 174 grams of Heroin. 11 cases were registered, and 13 persons were arrested.
Kolasib Police seized 1,680 half bottles of IMFL, 624 quarter bottles of IMFL, 624 cans of beer, and 45 grams of Heroin. 4 cases were registered, and 7 individuals were arrested. Mamit Police recovered 147 litres of LML, 12 cans of beer, and 4.35 grams of Heroin. 9 cases were registered, and 10 persons were arrested.
Similar operations were carried out by police forces across other districts, including Lunglei, Champhai, Khawzawl, Hnahthial, Siaha, Lawngtlai, and Saitual.
Also Read: Assam: Gas leak from Baghjan oil well impacts 600 tea workers