Aizawl: Mizoram Home Minister K. Sapdanga on Monday said the state government would adopt a zero-tolerance approach against cross-border areca nut smuggling and warned that strict action would be taken against all those involved, including government employees and members of the police force.
Speaking at a programme held at the ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) office, Sapdanga alleged that the illegal trade has, in the past, been facilitated by a nexus involving political figures and law enforcement personnel.
He said the government has already begun removing such elements from the system and reaffirmed the ZPM’s commitment to combating the smuggling network. Sapdanga added that political leaders linked to the trade have been rejected by voters, while police personnel found to be involved are being forced to retire.
The minister said no distinction would be made between serving officials and private individuals, and that all those found guilty of areca nut smuggling would face strong legal action. He also said curbs on foreign imports have benefited local farmers, especially in the Hachhek area of Mamit district, where growers have reported better demand for their produce following the enforcement drive.
Sapdanga also announced that the government would step up ‘Operation Jericho,’ a joint initiative launched in September last year by the home and excise departments along with the Young Mizo Association (YMA), to tackle the growing problem of drug trafficking and substance abuse in the state.
ALSO READ: Over 90% biometric enrolment of Myanmar refugees completed in Mizoram
Referring to what he described as worrying levels of drug addiction, the minister said Aizawl alone has more than 10,000 drug users, a situation that has adversely affected public safety and made nighttime movement risky for residents.
To strengthen law enforcement capacity, Sapdanga said the government is planning to recruit 200 additional police personnel to address shortages in the state police force.
