New Delhi: DRI operations across India have resulted in the seizure of 15 kg of methamphetamine tablets, around 4 kg of pseudoephedrine, nearly 85 lakh smuggled cigarettes and two Pakistan-made pistols. Officials also arrested five people during the intelligence-led crackdown.
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence carried out the operations in Mizoram, Maharashtra, Punjab and Tamil Nadu between July 15 and July 17. The agency targeted organised smuggling networks involved in narcotics, illicit tobacco and illegal arms trafficking.
In Mizoram, DRI officers intercepted a truck on the Aizawl–Champhai Road on July 15. They recovered 15 kg of methamphetamine tablets hidden inside brick-shaped packets. Preliminary findings indicated that smugglers moved the drugs from Myanmar through the Zokhawthar sector. Consequently, officers arrested one person under the NDPS Act.
On July 16, DRI officers examined an import container at Nhava Sheva in Mumbai. Although the cargo declaration mentioned plastic storage boxes, officers found nearly 85 lakh foreign-made Gold Flake cigarettes valued at ₹20 crore. They seized the consignment.
DRI operations uncover drugs and illegal arms
On July 17, DRI officers in Punjab recovered two drone-dropped parcels near the International Border in the Amritsar sector. The parcels contained two Pakistan-made pistols with magazines. Subsequently, officials handed the weapons to the local police for action under the Arms Act.
On the same day, DRI officers raided a clandestine premises in Chennai. They recovered around 4 kg of pseudoephedrine hidden inside a specially built cavity. Investigators believe the chemical was meant for illegal export and the manufacture of methamphetamine. Therefore, officers arrested four people under the NDPS Act.
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence said the DRI operations reflect its continued efforts to dismantle organised smuggling networks and curb narcotics trafficking, illicit tobacco trade and cross-border arms movement.
