North Tripura Police, Assam Rifles and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) recovered around 5 lakh Yaba tablets worth nearly ₹40 crore during a joint operation in Panisagar. The team intercepted a Tata truck at Panisagar Naka after receiving specific intelligence about a suspected drug consignment travelling from Assam towards Agartala.
During the search, officials discovered a specially fabricated hidden compartment inside the truck. The compartment contained around 50 kg of Yaba tablets. Police also arrested the truck driver and started further investigation into the alleged trafficking network.
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Key Facts
- Location: Panisagar Naka, North Tripura
- Drug: Around 5 lakh Yaba tablets
- Weight: Approximately 50 kg
- Estimated value: Nearly ₹40 crore
- Agencies: North Tripura Police, Assam Rifles and DRI
- Vehicle: Tata truck
- Arrest: One truck driver
- Date: September 16, 2026
Joint Operation in Panisagar
The joint operation followed specific intelligence about a Tata truck travelling from Assam towards Agartala. Acting on the information, North Tripura Police, Assam Rifles and DRI teams intercepted the vehicle at Panisagar Naka.
Officials then conducted a detailed search in the presence of an Executive Magistrate. During the inspection, the team discovered a specially constructed compartment inside the truck.
The hidden chamber contained a large quantity of suspected Yaba tablets. Officials estimated the consignment at around 5,00,000 tablets, weighing approximately 50 kg.
Yaba Consignment Worth ₹40 Crore
Authorities estimated the international market value of the seized tablets at nearly ₹40 crore. The large quantity indicates that the consignment formed a substantial commercial shipment.
Meanwhile, officials sent samples for forensic examination. The Forensic Science Laboratory later confirmed the substance as Yaba.
The seizure has drawn attention because traffickers allegedly used a concealed compartment to transport the tablets. Investigators will now examine how the compartment was constructed and who arranged the shipment.
Truck Driver Arrested
Police initially detained the truck driver for questioning. After the authorities completed the initial investigation, they formally arrested him.
Police have registered a case under the relevant provisions of law. The accused will face court proceedings as the investigation continues.
Meanwhile, investigators are examining the truck’s travel route and other available evidence. They will also question the accused about the source and intended destination of the consignment.
Investigation Into Trafficking Network
The agencies will now investigate whether other people helped transport or arrange the suspected narcotics consignment.
In addition, investigators are expected to examine possible links between the shipment and wider inter-state or cross-border drug trafficking networks.
The joint action also highlights the role of intelligence sharing between enforcement agencies in monitoring suspected narcotics movement through the Northeast.
Questions and Answers
What did authorities seize in Panisagar?
Authorities recovered around 5 lakh Yaba tablets weighing approximately 50 kg.
What is the estimated value of the seized Yaba?
Officials estimated the international market value at nearly ₹40 crore.
Where did the seizure take place?
The joint team intercepted the truck at Panisagar Naka in North Tripura.
How did officials find the tablets?
During the search, officials discovered a specially fabricated concealed compartment inside the truck.
Who was arrested?
Police arrested the truck driver allegedly linked to the consignment.
Which agencies conducted the operation?
North Tripura Police, Assam Rifles and the DRI jointly conducted the operation.
What happens next?
Investigators will examine the source, destination and possible connections of the suspected drug consignment.
Location Context
Panisagar in North Tripura lies along an important transport corridor in Northeast India. Therefore, coordinated checks and intelligence sharing remain important for law-enforcement agencies monitoring the movement of illegal consignments through the region.
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