Agartala/Aizawl/Kolkata: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday launched simultaneous search operations across Tripura, Mizoram, and West Bengal in connection with an alleged international drug trafficking and money laundering network. The action, carried out under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), has led investigators to identify proceeds of crime worth more than ₹142 crore. The probe stems from a major narcotics seizure made by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in Tripura in August 2025.
Investigators believe the network smuggled methamphetamine from Myanmar into India and used multiple financial channels to launder illegal earnings. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials expect further disclosures in the coming days.
Read More: Debbarma Criticizes Tripura Govt Over ILP Issues
ED Launches Coordinated Raids Across Three States
The Enforcement Directorate conducted search operations at multiple locations in Tripura, Mizoram, and West Bengal as part of its ongoing money laundering investigation.
According to officials, the searches were carried out under Section 17 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. The operation targets individuals and entities allegedly linked to an international narcotics trafficking network.
Moreover, investigators are examining financial transactions and assets suspected to be connected to the illegal drug trade.
Probe Linked to Major Drug Seizure in Tripura
The current investigation originates from a case registered by the Narcotics Control Bureau following a significant drug seizure in Tripura on August 21, 2025.
During that operation, authorities seized 49.101 kilograms of methamphetamine tablets and 40 grams of heroin. As a result, investigators uncovered evidence pointing to a larger cross-border drug trafficking network.
Subsequently, the ED initiated a money laundering probe to trace the financial gains generated through the alleged illegal activities.
Methamphetamine Allegedly Smuggled Through Mizoram Border
Investigators revealed that the methamphetamine consignments were allegedly sourced from Myanmar.
According to the probe, traffickers smuggled the drugs into India through the Zokhawthar border point in Mizoram’s Champhai district. Thereafter, the consignments were reportedly transported to various locations in Tripura for further distribution.
Furthermore, officials suspect that the network used multiple routes across the Northeast to move narcotics and avoid detection.
₹142 Crore Financial Trail Under Investigation
One of the most significant findings of the investigation is the discovery of financial transactions worth more than ₹142 crore.
The ED alleges that the syndicate created a complex financial structure involving numerous bank accounts, intermediaries, and shell companies.
Consequently, investigators believe these entities helped conceal the origin of illegal funds and facilitated large-scale money laundering operations.
Officials are currently examining transaction records, ownership details, and financial links associated with the suspected network.
Searches Conducted Near International Borders
As part of the operation, ED teams conducted searches at several strategic locations.
In Tripura, officials searched the residences of Jashim Miah and Anwar Hossain in the Kulubari area of Sonamura. Notably, the area lies close to the India-Bangladesh international border.
Meanwhile, investigators also carried out search operations at a location in Mizoram situated near the India-Myanmar border. Authorities believe these border regions may have played a role in the movement of narcotics and illicit funds.
Previous ED Action in Mizoram
The latest operation comes shortly after another major ED investigation in Mizoram.
Last week, the agency conducted searches related to the alleged smuggling of areca nuts, commonly known as betel nuts, from Myanmar into India.
In that case, officials reported the detection of proceeds of crime worth nearly ₹970 crore. Therefore, the latest drug trafficking investigation adds to growing concerns about organized cross-border smuggling networks operating in the Northeast.
Northeast Borders Under Increased Scrutiny
Security and intelligence agencies have repeatedly highlighted the challenges posed by the region’s long and porous international borders.
Particularly, Mizoram and Manipur share extensive boundaries with Myanmar, making them vulnerable to cross-border trafficking activities.
Investigators indicate that narcotics and other contraband often enter India through routes passing across districts such as Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip.
As a result, authorities have intensified monitoring and enforcement efforts along these corridors.
Investigation Continues
The Enforcement Directorate has stated that the involvement of additional individuals, companies, and financial entities remains under examination.
Furthermore, investigators are analyzing evidence collected during the raids. Officials expect more details to emerge as the probe progresses.
The agency has not ruled out further searches, seizures, or legal action against individuals found to be connected to the alleged drug trafficking and money laundering network.
Key Facts
- Agency: Enforcement Directorate (ED)
- Operation Date: June 2026
- States Covered: Tripura, Mizoram, and West Bengal
- Case Origin: NCB drug seizure in Tripura on August 21, 2025
- Drugs Seized Earlier: 49.101 kg methamphetamine tablets and 40 grams heroin
- Suspected Source: Myanmar
- Entry Point: Zokhawthar border, Champhai district, Mizoram
- Proceeds of Crime Identified: More than ₹142 crore
- Law Invoked: Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002
- Investigation Status: Ongoing
Question & Answer
What action did the ED take?
The ED conducted simultaneous raids across Tripura, Mizoram, and West Bengal in connection with a drug trafficking and money laundering investigation.
How much money has been traced so far?
Investigators have identified proceeds of crime exceeding ₹142 crore.
Where did the investigation originate?
The probe began after an NCB drug seizure in Tripura on August 21, 2025.
How were the drugs allegedly brought into India?
Investigators believe the methamphetamine was smuggled from Myanmar through the Zokhawthar border in Mizoram.
Is the investigation still ongoing?
Yes. The ED has stated that more individuals and entities remain under investigation.
Location Context
Tripura and Mizoram are strategically important Northeastern states that share international borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar respectively. Due to their geographic location, these border regions are closely monitored by security agencies to prevent cross-border smuggling, narcotics trafficking, and other transnational crimes.
Also Read: Itanagar Man Arrested in Machete Attack Case