DRB seizes over 43 lakh smuggled foreign-made cigarettes worth Rs 8.64 crore in Mizoram; one arrested
Mizoram's DRIF seized a large consignment of over 43 lakh smuggled foreign-made cigarettes, valued at Rs 8.64 crore. One accused has been arrested in the case.
Journalism India··1 views·2 min read
In a major successful operation by the Southern Regional Office of the Department of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in Mizoram, over 43 lakh packets of smuggled foreign-origin cigarettes, valued at a total of 8.64 crore rupees, were seized. During this significant operation, one individual was arrested on charges of illegal smuggling.
DRI officials stated that the action was taken suddenly based on long-term monitoring and intelligence. The legal value of these smuggled cigarettes is estimated at 8.64 crore rupees, which posed a serious burden on the national exchequer. The seized material includes a large number of packets of various foreign cigarette brands that were being attempted to be brought into the country without paying any duty or tax.
According to officials, these smuggled cigarettes were being illegally brought in through border areas of Mizoram, from where they were to be sold in further markets. The DRI team successfully prevented a major disruption by taking swift action upon receiving the information. A case has been registered against the arrested individual under the relevant sections of the Indian Customs Act.
This operation was carried out at a time when the government is taking strict measures to curb the smuggling of tangible goods and reduce fiscal losses. The DRI office in Mizoram has conducted several such major operations in previous years, serving as a lesson to smugglers. Officials claim that this success will not be isolated, and such operations will continue to bring illegal traders within the purview of the law.
Further interrogation of the arrested accused is underway to identify the masterminds behind the smuggling racket. This case highlights the importance of monitoring smuggling in border areas. The government welcomes such operations, which are vital for the country's economic security. The DRI has clarified that it will continue to monitor such activities while maintaining coordination with all relevant departments.
