Agartala: May 16: In a major crackdown on smuggling activities, Assam Rifles personnel seized at least 170 cartons of banned foreign cigarettes from the Chandrapur area of Agartala on Monday. The seized contraband is estimated to be worth approximately ₹5.1 crore in the international market.
According to a press release issued by Assam Rifles, the operation was conducted based on specific intelligence input regarding the illegal storage of foreign cigarettes in the area. Acting swiftly, the security personnel launched the raid and successfully recovered the large consignment.
Following the seizure, the items were handed over to the Customs Department for further investigation and legal action. The swift and coordinated action highlights the Assam Rifles’ proactive approach to tackling cross-border smuggling and illegal trade in the region.
Officials noted that the successful operation is a reflection of Assam Rifles’ unwavering commitment to curbing illegal activities along India’s northeastern borders. With Tripura sharing an international boundary with Bangladesh, the state often witnesses cases of smuggling involving banned goods such as narcotics, foreign cigarettes, gold, and other contraband items.
The Assam Rifles has been maintaining heightened vigilance across vulnerable border areas to ensure national security and safeguard economic interests. Smuggling of foreign cigarettes not only results in significant tax losses but is also linked to wider networks of organized crime.
Security officials have confirmed that an investigation is underway to identify those behind the smuggling operation and dismantle the supply chain. Authorities reiterated their resolve to continue such operations in coordination with customs and other enforcement agencies.
The Assam Rifles’ continued efforts are being lauded as essential in protecting both national security and economic stability in the strategically sensitive northeastern region.
