Manipur Police Arrest Woman from Uttar Pradesh with Heroin Worth Rs 10 Crore
News Summary
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, Manipur Police’s Special Cell apprehended a 46-year-old woman, Shamim Bano, from Uttar Pradesh’s Bara Banki district. She was caught near the North Assam Oil Company in Imphal West, in possession of 1.557 kilograms of high-quality heroin, valued at over ₹10 crore in the international market. This arrest is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle interstate narcotics networks operating through Manipur.
The Arrest: A Closer Look
On May 20, 2025, acting on credible intelligence, Manipur Police’s Special Cell conducted a targeted operation in Imphal West District. The operation led to the arrest of Shamim Bano, a 46-year-old resident of Barauli Malik, Bara Banki, Uttar Pradesh. She was apprehended near the North Assam Oil Company, close to a public toilet under Imphal Police Station.
During the arrest, authorities seized:
- 1.557 kilograms of suspected heroin powder
- A mobile phone
- An Aadhaar card
- Three bags
- ₹1,400 in cash
The seized heroin is estimated to be worth over ₹10 crore in the international market
Recent Drug Seizures in Manipur
Manipur has witnessed several significant drug seizures in recent times:
- March 2025: Manipur Police seized 10.565 kilograms of heroin powder worth over ₹21 crore along National Highway-2 (Imphal-Dimapur), arresting three individuals, including a couple.
- April 2025: A joint operation by Assam Rifles and Manipur Police led to the arrest of two drug smugglers and the seizure of 11.1 kilograms of WY tablets and 0.5 kilograms of heroin worth over ₹11 crore.
- May 2025: Manipur Police arrested a woman from Uttar Pradesh with 1.557 kilograms of heroin worth over ₹10 crore.
These incidents highlight the persistent efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb drug trafficking in the region.
Conclusion
The recent arrest of Shamim Bano underscores the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Manipur. It highlights the need for continued vigilance, inter-agency cooperation, and community engagement to dismantle these illicit networks. As traffickers evolve their methods, law enforcement must adapt and strengthen their strategies to safeguard communities from the scourge of narcotics.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Manipur a hotspot for drug trafficking?
Manipur’s geographical location, bordering Myanmar—a part of the Golden Triangle—makes it a strategic transit point for narcotics entering India.
Q2: What measures are being taken to combat drug trafficking in Manipur?
Law enforcement agencies are conducting targeted operations, enhancing border surveillance, and collaborating with national and international bodies to curb drug trafficking.
Q3: How are drugs typically smuggled into Manipur?
Traffickers use various methods, including concealing drugs in vehicles, using couriers, and exploiting porous borders to smuggle narcotics into the state.
Q4: What challenges do law enforcement agencies face in Manipur?
Challenges include difficult terrain, limited resources, evolving smuggling tactics, and the need for greater inter-agency coordination.
Q5: How can the public assist in combating drug trafficking?
Public awareness, community vigilance, and reporting suspicious activities can significantly aid law enforcement efforts in tackling drug trafficking.
