‘No mercy’: Amit Shah lauds NCB after drugs worth Rs 88 crore seized in Assam; 4 arrested

By | March 17, 2025

Amit Shah Praises NCB for ₹88 Crore Drug Seizure in Assam

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has commended the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) for its latest crackdown on drug trafficking. Officials seized methamphetamine tablets worth ₹88 crore and arrested four people linked to an international drug cartel operating in Imphal and Guwahati.

This operation is part of the government’s ongoing effort to curb drug smuggling, especially in the Northeast region, which has become a key transit point for illegal substances.

NCB’s Major Drug Bust

Amit Shah took to social media to highlight the operation, stating:

“No mercy for drug cartels. Accelerating the Modi government’s mission for a drug-free Bharat, NCB seized ₹88 crore worth of methamphetamine tablets and arrested four cartel members in Imphal and Guwahati.”

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating drug networks and ensuring strict action against traffickers.

Drug Seizure in Imphal

The NCB’s operation began on March 13 when officers stopped a truck near Lilong, Manipur. Upon inspection, they found:

  • 102.39 kg of methamphetamine tablets hidden in a toolbox at the rear of the truck
  • Two people arrested at the scene

Following this, officials arrested a third suspect believed to be the recipient of the consignment. They also seized a four-wheeler used for transportation.

Authorities suspect the drugs were smuggled from Moreh, Manipur, a known drug trafficking hub along the India-Myanmar border.

Drug Bust in Guwahati

Later that day, NCB officers in Guwahati, Assam, intercepted an SUV near the Assam-Mizoram border in Silchar. After searching the vehicle, they found:

  • 7.48 kg of methamphetamine tablets
  • The drugs were hidden inside the spare tire
  • The driver was arrested

Investigators confirmed that the drugs also came from Moreh and were intended for distribution in Karimganj, Assam.

Meanwhile, NCB has also taken over a separate case involving the seizure of 46 kg of crystal meth in Aizawl, Mizoram on March 6.

Why the Northeast is a Drug Trafficking Hub

The Northeast region has become a hotspot for drug smuggling due to its proximity to Myanmar, Bangladesh, and China. Some key reasons include:

  • Border with the Golden Triangle – Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos are among the biggest drug-producing regions.
  • Remote terrain – The dense forests and hills make tracking smugglers difficult.
  • International crime syndicates – Organized groups are heavily involved in trafficking drugs across borders.
  • Synthetic drug production – Unlike heroin or opium, methamphetamine (YABA) is easier to manufacture and transport.

Government’s Stand Against Drugs

Amit Shah has consistently stressed the need to eliminate drug cartels and prevent India from becoming a transit hub. Recently, he said:

“We are committed to making India drug-free. No matter how deep these networks run, we will dismantle them.”

Public support for the crackdown has been strong, especially from parents and educators concerned about rising drug addiction among youth. However, experts suggest that better rehabilitation programs and job opportunities must also be part of the solution.