Manipur: Assam Rifles Seize ₹9 Crore Worth of Contraband, Apprehend Two in Chandel Operation
News Summary
In a significant anti-smuggling operation on April 29, 2025, the Assam Rifles apprehended two individuals and seized contraband worth approximately ₹9 crore in Manipur’s Chandel district. The operation, based on intelligence inputs, led to the interception of two vehicles at Yangoubung, resulting in the recovery of 3 lakh WY tablets, ₹2.6 lakh in unaccounted cash, and two four-wheelers. The suspects, identified as Paojathang Kipgen and Kamminlun Kipgen from Govajang village, were handed over to the Moreh Police Station along with the seized items for further legal action.
Unveiling the Operation: Assam Rifles’ Major Contraband Seizure in Manipur
The Menace of Cross-Border Smuggling
Manipur’s strategic location, sharing a porous border with Myanmar, has long made it a hotspot for cross-border smuggling activities. The region’s challenging terrain and limited surveillance infrastructure provide smugglers with numerous routes to transport illicit goods. Among the most trafficked items are narcotics, which not only fuel local addiction crises but also fund insurgent groups, exacerbating regional instability.
Assam Rifles: The Sentinel of the Northeast
The Assam Rifles, India’s oldest paramilitary force, plays a pivotal role in maintaining security in the Northeast. Their responsibilities encompass border security, counter-insurgency operations, and curbing illegal activities like smuggling. Their presence in Manipur is crucial, given the state’s vulnerability to cross-border crimes.
The Chandel Operation: A Tactical Breakdown
Acting on specific intelligence about the movement of suspicious vehicles from Moreh towards Churachandpur, the Assam Rifles launched an operation on April 29, 2025. They established Multiple Military Vehicle Check Posts (MVCPs) at strategic locations, including T Bongmol Junction, New Songyang axis, and Yangoubung in Chandel district
At the Yangoubung check post, two vehicles—a Bolero (AS 32/9471) and a Hyundai Creta (DL 5N 2021)—were intercepted. Upon inspection, the team discovered 30 packets containing 3 lakh tablets of the banned ‘World is Yours’ (WY) drugs, weighing approximately 35.41 kilograms. Additionally, ₹2.6 lakh in unaccounted cash and incriminating documents were seized.
👥 The Apprehended Individuals
The two individuals apprehended were identified as:
- Paojathang Kipgen (30): Resident of Govajang village under Moreh Police Station, Tengnoupal District.
- Kamminlun Kipgen (24): Also from Govajang village.
Both suspects, along with the seized contraband, vehicles, and documents, were handed over to the Moreh Police Station for further legal proceedings.
WY Tablets: A Growing Concern
‘World is Yours’ (WY) tablets, a potent combination of methamphetamine and caffeine, have become a significant concern in Northeast India. These tablets are known for their high addictive potential and are often trafficked from Myanmar into India. Their proliferation poses severe health risks and contributes to the funding of insurgent activities in the region
The Broader Implications
This operation underscores the persistent challenges faced by security forces in curbing cross-border smuggling. The successful interception not only prevents harmful substances from reaching the local populace but also disrupts the financial channels of insurgent groups. However, the incident also highlights the need for enhanced surveillance and community engagement to address the root causes of smuggling.
Collaborative Efforts: A Way Forward
Combating smuggling requires a multi-faceted approach:
- Enhanced Surveillance: Deploying advanced technologies like drones and surveillance cameras along the border.
- Community Engagement: Educating local communities about the dangers of smuggling and encouraging them to report suspicious activities.
- Inter-Agency Coordination: Fostering better collaboration between various security agencies and local law enforcement.
- Policy Reforms: Implementing stricter penalties for smuggling offenses and ensuring swift judicial processes.
❓ FAQs
Q1: What are WY tablets, and why are they dangerous?
WY tablets are a combination of methamphetamine and caffeine, known for their high addictive potential. They can cause severe health issues, including cardiovascular problems and neurological disorders.NorthEast Now
Q2: Why is Manipur a hotspot for smuggling activities?
Manipur’s porous border with Myanmar, combined with challenging terrain and limited surveillance infrastructure, makes it susceptible to cross-border smuggling.
Q3: How does smuggling impact local communities in Manipur?
Smuggling introduces harmful substances into communities, leading to health crises. It also fuels insurgent activities, leading to instability and economic disruptions.
Q4: What measures are being taken to curb smuggling in the region?
Security forces are enhancing surveillance, engaging with local communities, and coordinating with various agencies to combat smuggling effectively.
Q5: How can local communities assist in preventing smuggling?
By staying vigilant, reporting suspicious activities, and participating in awareness programs, communities can play a pivotal role in curbing smuggling.
