Assam Rifles and Customs officials seized yaba tablets worth ₹14 crore in Tripura. The joint team conducted the raid on Monday night near the Indo-Bangladesh border in the Sepahijala district. Acting on a tip-off, the authorities apprehended two individuals attempting to smuggle the tablets across the border.
The tablets, known for their potent mix of methamphetamine and caffeine, have become a pressing concern in India’s northeastern region. The authorities believe the seizure could be linked to a larger trafficking network operating between Myanmar, India, and Bangladesh.
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Intelligence-based operation near border
According to an official statement from Assam Rifles, the operation was initiated after receiving reliable information about an impending drug movement near the Matinagar border outpost. Personnel swiftly coordinated with Customs and launched a joint surveillance mission. By late evening, two suspects were intercepted in a remote area, found carrying sacks loaded with yaba tablets.
The suspects, both residents of the border belt, were taken into custody for interrogation. During questioning, they reportedly revealed connections to a broader network with routes extending into Mizoram and Bangladesh. Officials have not disclosed further details, as investigations are still ongoing.
Rising threat of synthetic drugs in Tripura
Tripura has witnessed a surge in synthetic drug trafficking in recent years, particularly yaba tablets. The tablets are easy to conceal, making them a favourite among traffickers operating across porous borders. Officials say that drugs like these are often transported by foot across unfenced sections of the border, sometimes even with the help of locals.
The state police and paramilitary forces have jointly stepped up patrols and intelligence gathering. They’ve also been working with counterparts in Mizoram and Manipur to counter the growing menace.
A customs officer involved in the raid said, “This seizure is a clear signal that synthetic drugs continue to pour into the state. Strong inter-agency cooperation is the only way forward.”
Tripura as a transit corridor
Due to its strategic location, Tripura has increasingly become a transit corridor for drug trafficking. Its proximity to Myanmar through Mizoram and its long border with Bangladesh make it a vulnerable link in the larger Southeast Asia drug trail.
Over the last six months, security forces have confiscated a variety of contraband in the state, including heroin, brown sugar, and synthetic tablets. The government has repeatedly expressed concern over these trends, citing threats to public health and regional security.
Experts warn that if unchecked, Tripura could turn into a permanent channel for illegal trade. Local officials now seek stronger border fencing, more surveillance drones, and better cooperation with Bangladeshi authorities.
Political, social response growing
The seizure has sparked political reactions. Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha commended the security forces for their vigilance. In a post on social media, he wrote, “I appreciate the efforts of Assam Rifles and Customs in protecting Tripura from the clutches of drugs. We remain committed to eradicating this menace.”
Social organisations have also raised concerns. Several youth groups have demanded rehabilitation centres in high-risk areas. They’ve urged the government to launch more awareness campaigns targeting students and unemployed youth, who often become victims of drug addiction or tools of trafficking.
Strengthening law enforcement mechanisms
In response to increasing drug cases, the Tripura government has taken several steps in recent months. It has sanctioned more personnel for border posts and modern surveillance tools for customs and police teams. New anti-narcotics task forces have been introduced in districts close to international boundaries.
Assam Rifles, part of the Ministry of Home Affairs, has also realigned its internal strategy in Tripura. A senior officer said, “We have improved coordination with state police and customs. There’s a renewed focus on cutting off supply chains through faster intelligence exchange.”
Additionally, sources suggest that central agencies are now monitoring online drug sales in the region. They’ve identified social media and messaging apps as new platforms for traffickers to connect with buyers and couriers.
Cross-border cooperation vital
Tripura shares an 856-kilometre-long border with Bangladesh, much of it unfenced. Despite bilateral agreements, large stretches remain vulnerable. While joint patrolling exists in some sectors, communication gaps and lack of real-time data sharing continue to hamper action.
Officials have once again stressed the need for high-level meetings between India and Bangladesh, specifically to address the synthetic drug trade. As more seizures take place near the border, pressure mounts for both countries to treat it as a shared crisis.
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