Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: A joint operation by Manipur Police and central security forces led to the arrest of four alleged smugglers in Churachandpur district on Monday, along with the seizure of 153 soap cases containing suspected brown sugar, a heroin derivative.
In the first phase of the coordinated action, three individuals identified as residents of Churachandpur district-Pauzathang (45) of Singngat village, Ginpu Zou (39) of Thingkangphai village and Kailunmang (30) of Hiangtam village were apprehended in the Tongdam area under Churachandpur police station limits. Officials said they were intercepted with 67 soap cases containing approximately 670 grams of suspected brown sugar.
Based on information obtained during interrogation, security personnel later intercepted a Maruti Alto (registration number WB-196-8906) in the Headquarters Veng area of Churachandpur. The vehicle was being driven by Thongkhosei Haokip (44) of Molnoi Pallel in Tengnoupal district, currently residing in Deilhenphai village, Churachandpur.
A further 77 soap cases containing around 680 grams of brown sugar were recovered from the vehicle. Authorities estimate the total value of the seized narcotics at over Rs 1 crore in the illicit international market. All accused have been booked under provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Amendment) Act, 2023.
In a separate enforcement action, security forces also recovered 240 cans of beer during a routine inspection at the Wangoi Police Station gate in Imphal West district. The seized consignment was subsequently handed over to the Excise Station at Hiyangthang for further legal proceedings.