Agartala, December 29, 2025: In a major breakthrough against cross-border smuggling, Assam Rifles, in a joint operation with the Customs Department, recovered a large consignment of contraband cigarettes in the Chakmaghat area of Teliamura on Monday.

The operation, launched at 9:15 a.m. and concluded at 1:30 p.m., was based on specific intelligence inputs from internal sources and 11 WEU. Acting swiftly, security personnel intercepted a Tata truck (Registration No. TR-01-AP-1717) and conducted a thorough search.

Officials confirmed the recovery of 6.5 lakh cigarettes packed in 65 cartons, with an estimated international market value of ₹65 lakh.

The driver of the vehicle, identified as Giashuddin (36), son of Maynul Haque, resident of Baitakhal Basti, Patharkandi, Karimganj district of Assam, was apprehended during the operation.

Both the seized consignment and the accused have been handed over to Customs authorities for further investigation and legal proceedings.

Assam Rifles reiterated its commitment to working closely with enforcement agencies to curb illegal activities and safeguard security in the region.