The fight against cross-border smuggling, Assam Police in Boko have seized a consignment of illegal Burmese supari (areca nuts) valued at around ₹7 lakh. Furthermore, the contraband was intercepted along the Assam-Meghalaya border on Saturday night. Although, leading to the arrest of two individuals.
Crackdown on Smuggling Intensifies in Assam
The seizure took place during a late-night operation conducted by a team led by Boko Police Station Officer-in-Charge, Suman Das. Acting on intelligence inputs, the police set up a checkpoint near Kukurmara, close to the interstate border.
A suspicious Tata Ace vehicle was intercepted, and a thorough search revealed several gunny bags filled with Burmese supari. Also, preliminary investigation indicated that the consignment was being transported from Meghalaya into Assam without valid documents.
“This is part of our continuous efforts to curb illegal trade that threatens the local economy,” said Das while briefing reporters.
Two Accused Arrested in Boko
The police have arrested two individuals linked to the smuggling racket. They have been identified as 28-year-old Rajib Ali and 32-year-old Salim Hussain, both residents of Assam.
“They failed to produce valid paperwork for the consignment,” Das added. “We have booked them under relevant sections of the Customs Act and other laws dealing with smuggling.”
The accused are currently under police custody. And will be produced before the court for further legal action.
Why Burmese Supari Smuggling is a Concern
The trade of illegal Burmese supari has long been a matter of concern for authorities in Assam and other northeastern states. Also, Burmese areca nuts enter India through porous borders and are transported to markets across the country.
This illicit trade poses multiple challenges:
- Revenue loss: Smuggled supari evades taxes and duties, causing significant financial losses to state and central governments.
- Local economy impact: Local supari growers face unfair competition from cheaper smuggled products.
- Quality concerns: Illegally imported Burmese supari often bypasses quality checks, raising health and safety concerns.
Assam Police Steps Up Surveillance
Assam Police have intensified checks along interstate borders. Also, several joint operations are being conducted in coordination with Customs and other enforcement agencies.
“Our priority is to stop the flow of illegal goods like Burmese supari, drugs, and other contraband,” said Das.
Additionally, he urged the public to cooperate by reporting suspicious activities in border regions.
Government’s Focus on Curbing Smuggling
The government has pledged stronger measures against smuggling. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has often emphasized zero tolerance for illegal trade threatening the state’s economy.
Recent seizures underline the success of coordinated efforts between police, Customs, and border security forces.
Legal Action and Future Steps
Assam Police in Boko stated that further investigation is underway to trace the entire smuggling network. Authorities suspect the seized consignment was meant for markets outside Assam.
“We are working to identify other members of this racket,” Das said. “More arrests are likely in the coming days.”
Locals Welcome Police Action
Moreover, residents in Boko and adjoining areas have welcomed the police crackdown. Moreover, many traders have voiced concerns over illegal Burmese supari affecting legitimate businesses.
“It’s good to see the police taking action. Furthermore, smuggled goods harm local traders and reduce government revenue,” said Ajmal Das, a local shopkeeper.
Call to Action Against Illegal Burmese Supari
Assam Police have appealed to the public to stay vigilant. Also, anyone with information about smuggling activities can contact their nearest police station.
“Together, we can protect our economy and ensure fair trade practices,” Das concluded.
