NCB and security forces seized heroin worth ?8.5 crore in Churachandpur, arresting two traffickers. Multiple drug-related arrests across Manipur highlight intensified efforts to dismantle cross-border narcotics networks linked to Myanmar.
IMPHAL – In a major crackdown on cross-border narcotics trafficking, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Imphal Zonal Unit, in coordination with Assam Rifles and Manipur Police, has dismantled a significant heroin trafficking network operating along the Indo-Myanmar corridor.
Acting on specific intelligence, a joint operation was carried out near Khuakhual in Churachandpur district on April 28, resulting in the interception of a Gypsy vehicle and a Kenbo motorcycle. Upon search, officials recovered 374 soap cases of heroin weighing approximately 4.267 kg, with an estimated international market value of ?8.5 crore.
Two individuals involved in the trafficking network were arrested at the scene. Authorities also seized two wireless communication devices, believed to have been used for coordination during the transportation of the contraband.
“The seizure highlights the persistent challenge of drug trafficking along the Indo-Myanmar border, which continues to be exploited by transnational syndicates,” officials stated.
Cross-Border Linkages and Expanding Network
Preliminary investigations indicate that the seized heroin originated from Haichin in Myanmar and was intended for distribution within Churachandpur district. The operation underscores the strategic importance of Manipur as a transit point in the regional narcotics trade.
The Narcotics Control Bureau has been intensifying surveillance and enforcement operations across the Northeast, particularly along vulnerable border routes. Officials confirmed that further investigation is underway to identify additional members of the trafficking network and trace both forward and backward linkages.
KEY SEIZURE DETAILS:
o 374 soap cases of heroin seized
o Total weight: 4.267 kg
o Estimated value: ?8.5 crore
o Two accused arrested
o Vehicles and communication devices recovered
Series of Drug Seizures Across Manipur
The latest bust is part of a broader wave of anti-narcotics operations across the state in recent days, reflecting heightened enforcement efforts.
On April 27, security forces intercepted a Tata truck at Leingangpokpi village in Jiribam district along NH-37, recovering approximately 51 kg of opium. Two individuals—Sukhvinder Singh from Punjab and Sandeep Singh Tilno from Uttar Pradesh—were arrested. The truck and three mobile phones were also seized.
In a separate operation the same day, Manipur Police arrested a 24-year-old individual, Marconi Ningthoujam, at a checkpoint under Lamsang Police Station in Imphal West district. Authorities recovered 1.1 kg of suspected ganja from his possession.
Additionally, security forces apprehended two passengers at Imphal International Airport while they were en route to Bengaluru. The accused, identified as Aslam Khan and Chesam Amir, were found carrying 84 grams of suspected heroin (No. 4).
On 27.04.2026, security forces intercepted a Tata truck carrying contraband opium and arrested it occupants at Leingangpokpi village, Jiribam along NH-37 under Jiribam-PS, Jiribam district:
— Manipur Police (@manipur_police) April 28, 2026
i.Sukhvinder Singh (30) of Mari Udhoke, Punjab and
ii.Sandeep Singh Tilno (41) of Gudiyan… pic.twitter.com/K8dc2wx7h6
Earlier Major Haul Signals Escalation
Just days earlier, on April 26, the Narcotics Control Bureau, in collaboration with Assam Rifles and Manipur Police, seized 474 soap cases of heroin weighing 5.4 kg, valued at ?11 crore in the illicit market.
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— NCB INDIA (@narcoticsbureau) April 26, 2026
??? NCB, in collaboration with Assam Rifles & Manipur Police, seized 474 soap cases of heroin worth Rs 11 crore in illicit drug market Churachandpur, Manipur on the night intervening 23 April & 24 April 2026.
??? Contraband… pic.twitter.com/OfwJfndqL9
The contraband had been ingeniously concealed within a fabricated cavity of a Mahindra Bolero vehicle. Three traffickers, all residents of Churachandpur district, were arrested in that operation.
KEY POINT BOX:
o ?335 crore worth of drugs seized in Manipur in 2025
o ?75 crore worth seized so far in 2026
o Indo-Myanmar border remains high-risk trafficking route
o Intelligence-led operations driving recent successes
Intensified Crackdown and Public Cooperation
Authorities highlighted that these operations are part of a sustained campaign aligned with the Government of India’s vision of making Manipur a drug-free state. Enhanced inter-agency coordination, intelligence sharing, and strict enforcement measures are being deployed to disrupt organized trafficking networks.
The NCB has also urged citizens to play an active role by reporting drug-related activities through the MANAS helpline (1933), assuring confidentiality for informants.
“Public cooperation is crucial in dismantling these networks and preventing the spread of narcotics in society,” officials emphasized.
With multiple seizures in quick succession, security agencies believe they are closing in on a larger transnational drug network operating across the Indo-Myanmar border. Investigations are ongoing to map the full extent of the syndicate and apprehend remaining operatives.
The recent spate of arrests and seizures signals a decisive escalation in the fight against narcotics in Manipur, as enforcement agencies continue to tighten their grip on drug trafficking routes in the region.
