Imphal: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), with the assistance of central paramilitary forces and the state police, arrested two alleged drug smugglers and recovered 4.3 kilograms of heroin during an operation along the southern Manipur–Myanmar border in Churachandpur district on Thursday.
Police said the contraband, valued at around Rs 8 crore in the international illicit market, was recovered during the operation conducted in the area between Maukot village and Singngat in Churachandpur district. The heroin powder, reportedly smuggled into the state from Myanmar, was packed in 320 soap cases and concealed in the vehicle being used by the accused.
The arrested persons were identified as Hangkhankap and Khupjamlal, both residents of Churachandpur district.
The following items were seized from their possession:
i. 4.3 kg of heroin powder packed in 320 soap cases;
ii. One four-wheeler Bolero bearing registration number MN01S-1618; and
iii. One two-wheeler Bajaj Avenger bearing registration number DL10-SH-3331.
Further, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has registered a case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act and taken up further investigation.