Imphal: Manipur Police have seized 1,300 bags of urea during separate operations and detained multiple vehicles, officials said on Sunday.
According to an official statement, police intercepted vehicles on September 23 and seized 1,200 bags of urea. In a follow-up operation on September 25, another 100 bags were recovered.
A formal inquiry has been initiated into the seizures. The District Agriculture Officer, Bishnupur, has been requisitioned to conduct a detailed verification of the seized fertilizer and recommend further action.
Urea smuggling in Manipur has been linked by authorities to the illegal poppy cultivation and cross-border trafficking networks operating towards Myanmar. Officials have previously reported the recovery of urea from locations associated with illegal poppy plantations during anti-drug operations.
Authorities have also raised concerns over the diversion of subsidised agricultural fertilizer from legitimate distribution channels. Such diversion can contribute to shortages for farmers and encourage the sale of fertilizer through unauthorised channels.
According to official accounts, illicit networks may move fertilizer through concealed consignments and vehicle convoys, including during the agricultural off-season when legitimate demand is relatively lower. Police and agriculture officials have continued to conduct seizures and investigations as part of efforts to curb the illegal diversion of urea.
The latest seizures are expected to be examined by the agriculture authorities to establish the origin, intended destination and legality of the recovered fertilizer.