NCB mulls to open zonal office in Mizoram to tackle drug trafficking from Myanmar

In light of increasing drug smuggling activities from Myanmar, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has proposed setting up a zonal office in Mizoram, according to officials on Wednesday.

NCB Director General Anurag Garg, who recently met with Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, stressed the necessity of establishing a full-fledged zonal office in the state. He also underlined the importance of recruiting personnel familiar with local languages and ground realities to strengthen operations in the region.

Chief Minister Lalduhoma, a former IPS officer, discussed strategies with the NCB chief to combat drug trafficking and the growing problem of narcotics abuse among young people. He urged Garg to submit a detailed proposal outlining the requirements and structure of the proposed zonal office.

During the meeting, Lalduhoma reiterated the need for bolstering border security, manpower, and infrastructure to counter the influx of drugs through Mizoram’s porous borders. The state shares a 510-km-long border with Myanmar and a 318-km stretch with Bangladesh, both of which are largely unfenced.

Highlighting ongoing efforts, the Chief Minister said he has already appealed to the Ministry of Home Affairs to either establish or permit the formation of a Mizo Territorial Army to enhance vigilance along the state’s borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh.

The DG was also requested to submit a comprehensive written proposal regarding the NCB’s specific requirements to boost its anti-narcotics campaign in the region.

Mizoram, especially its border districts of Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip, has been grappling with illegal trafficking of methamphetamine tablets, arms, ammunition, foreign cigarettes, areca nuts, and exotic wildlife. Champhai, in particular, has emerged as a key corridor for drug smuggling operations.

Most of these contrabands enter India from Myanmar via illicit routes in Mizoram and Manipur, before being transported to other parts of India and beyond, including Bangladesh.