Imphal: The Assam Rifles, in coordination with local police, seized 68 tonnes of smuggled areca nuts valued at Rs. 5.87 crore in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district.
Acting on specific intelligence about illegal transportation along the Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37), a joint Mobile Vehicle Check Post (MVCP) was set up at Haibung.
During the operation, officials intercepted two Nagaland-registered trucks carrying the contraband.
Upon inspection, the areca nut consignment was found to lack mandatory documentation, including transit permits from the forest department.
The seized trucks and their cargo were handed over to Kangpokpi Forest Division officials for further legal proceedings and investigation.
The areca nuts, commonly known as Burmese betel nuts, were reportedly smuggled from Myanmar.
This illicit trade has been a recurring issue, particularly in Mizoram, where Assam Rifles and customs officials have frequently confiscated smuggled consignments.
Local farmers in Assam, Mizoram, and Tripura, major areca nut-producing regions, have raised concerns over the adverse impact of smuggling on their livelihoods.
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Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma recently highlighted the challenges posed by illegal imports, which have disrupted market prices for local cultivators.
As part of efforts to support farmers, the North Eastern Council has sanctioned Rs. 7.43 crore for establishing areca nut processing units in Mizoram.
These units aim to improve processing, add value to the produce, and bolster marketing efforts, ensuring economic benefits for the region’s farmers.
