A major heroin seizure on NH-306 rocked the Barak Valley this week as Assam Police intercepted a car and confiscated 1.3 kilograms of heroin concealed in 99 soap cases. The bust led to the arrest of two alleged traffickers from Manipur, one of whom was traveling with a toddler.
This operation shines a spotlight on how NH-306 has become a dangerous corridor for drug trafficking from Manipur into Assam and beyond.
Assam Police Foil Trafficking Attempt on NH-306
A Toddler Used to Mask Criminal Activity
Officers from the Cachar Police stopped a Manipur-registered Alto after receiving credible intelligence. During inspection, they found heroin packed in soap boxes hidden beneath the seats and in a concealed compartment.
The traffickers, Jashankumar Nongmaithem (28) and Leiren Chanu (24), had crossed into Assam through the Jiribam-Silchar corridor, a known smuggling route. Leiren was traveling with her two-year-old child in an apparent attempt to deflect suspicion.
“Our team acted swiftly based on prior intel. The traffickers tried to hide the drugs using common items like soap cases, but we discovered 99 packets totaling over 1.3 kg,” said Superintendent of Police, Numal Mahatta.
Police estimate the value of the seized heroin at over ₹9 crore in international markets.
Heroin Smuggling on the Rise in Cachar
The heroin seizure on NH-306 in Cachar is part of a larger trend. Drug traffickers often use this highway due to its strategic position and limited checkpoints. In the past six months, Assam Police have reported multiple busts in the Barak Valley area.
Syndicate Operating Across States
Authorities suspect this pair belongs to a wider drug network that sources heroin from Myanmar’s Golden Triangle. The cartel is believed to move narcotics through Manipur into Assam and other northeastern states.
Police are now working with Manipur officials and customs intelligence to trace the entire supply chain.
NH-306: Northeast’s Vulnerable Smuggling Route
National Highway 306, which connects Silchar in Assam to Kolasib in Mizoram, remains a key trafficking route. Due to weak surveillance and dense forest cover, traffickers exploit this corridor with increasing boldness.
Similar Seizures in Recent Months
- In June 2025, authorities in Mizoram seized 2.1 kg of heroin on the same route.
- In May, Assam Police busted a group in Karimganj with meth and heroin worth ₹15 crore.
These incidents show that NH-306 is a preferred route for smuggling operations, especially during times of political or administrative disruption.
Quick Action and Child Safety Measures
After the arrest, police handed the toddler over to child welfare services for care and protection. The Social Welfare Department will assess whether the child was knowingly used or was simply accompanying the adult during transport.
Assam Police confirmed that both traffickers will be charged under the NDPS Act, and a special narcotics court will hear the case within the next 30 days.
“We’re committed to cutting off drug supply routes and will follow every lead in this case,” said DGP G.P. Singh in a statement.
War on Drugs: Assam Police Intensify Operations
The “War on Drugs” campaign launched by the Assam government continues to disrupt major trafficking operations. In 2025 alone, the state has recorded over 300 kg of narcotics seizures.
How Citizens Can Help
Authorities encourage citizens to report suspicious activity along highways, border villages, and remote checkposts. Public cooperation plays a vital role in identifying drug peddlers early.
Report anonymously via Assam Police helpline: 112
Visit the Assam Police Portal to submit tips securely.
NH-306 Needs Continued Vigilance
The recent heroin seizure on NH-306 in Cachar is a serious reminder of the growing drug problem in Northeast India. While Assam Police are acting swiftly, the involvement of families and children in smuggling cases raises alarming social concerns.
This case serves as a call to action for stricter border checks, multi-state collaboration, and community vigilance.
READ MORE: Drug Smuggling in Northeast India: N. Biren Singh Sounds Alarm