The Enforcement Directorate launched a series of raids across Mizoram on Thursday as part of a ₹970‑crore money laundering probe linked to the smuggling of areca nuts from Myanmar. Officials confirmed that nine premises belonging to local facilitators in Champhai, a border town long associated with cross‑border trade, were searched during the operation.

The investigation stems from a case registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), following a Central Bureau of Investigation FIR that alleged large‑scale smuggling of dry areca nuts illegally imported from Myanmar into India through Champhai. The ED stated that the searches are aimed at dismantling a network accused of orchestrating this illicit trade and channeling its proceeds through unlawful financial routes.

Authorities believe the racket has been operating in an organized manner, exploiting the porous border to funnel contraband into India. The crackdown is expected to provide crucial evidence in tracing the money trail and identifying those behind the ₹970‑crore smuggling operation.