Mizoram Govt Warns of Strict Action Against Areca Nut Smuggling

The Mizoram government has warned of strict action against cross-border areca nut smuggling, alerting that no one, including government officials and police personnel, will be spared if found involved in the illegal trade. “The Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government is committed to eliminating areca nut smuggling,” State Home Minister K. Sapdanga said, while addressing a gathering at the ZPM office in Aizawl. Sapdanga said the administration has already begun purging such elements from the system.
“The Opposition has been attacking the government’s anti-smuggling drive. But politicians linked to the illegal trade have been rejected by voters, while police personnel found complicit are being retired. Anyone involved in areca nut smuggling, whether in active service or civilians, will face strict action,” the minister warned. “Restrictions on foreign imports have significantly benefitted local areca nut growers, particularly in the Hachhek area of Mamit district, where demand for locally produced areca nut has increased following the crackdown,” he said.

He further announced the intensification of ‘Operation Jericho’, a joint initiative launched in September last year by the home and excise departments in coordination with civil society organizations, including the Young Mizo Association (YMA). The operation aims to curb the rising drug trafficking and addiction crisis in the state. Underscoring the gravity of the situation, Sapdanga said Aizawl alone has more than 10,000 drug addicts, making the state capital increasingly unsafe after dark, not just for women but for men as well.