Aizawl, Nov 10: Assam Rifles recovered a consignment of contraband cigarettes valued at approximately Rs 52 lakh from Tlangsam in Champhai district of Mizoram, officials said on Sunday.

Acting on specific intelligence inputs about the movement of illicit goods near the Indo-Myanmar border, Assam Rifles personnel intercepted a Bolero camper vehicle driven by Lalhmingmawia Ralte. During the search, the troops recovered 38 cases of ESSE Light Cigarettes and two cases of International Master Piece Cigarettes.

The seized items, along with the apprehended individual and the vehicle, were handed over to the Legal Metrology Department in Champhai for further legal action. Assam Rifles officials said that an investigation is underway.

Last month, Assam Rifles, in collaboration with the Manipur Police and Excise Department, had seized Indian Made Liquor worth around Rs 1.12 crore from Kaimai in Tamenglong district, apprehending three individuals involved in the trade.

Officials added that such operations reaffirm Assam Rifles’ commitment to curbing illegal trade and supporting law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and security along the border areas.