Operation Trident Targets International Drug Trafficking Network; Raids Conducted at 38 Locations

New Delhi: The Centre has launched a coordinated crackdown on an international drug trafficking network operating across Northeast India. Led by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Operation Trident was conducted on October 23, with simultaneous raids at 38 locations across Assam, Mizoram and Manipur. The operation resulted in 18 arrests and targeted the financial infrastructure supporting the alleged cross-border narcotics trade.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah congratulated the central agencies and police teams of the three states, describing the operation as a major action against drug trafficking. He reiterated the government’s objective of dismantling every drug trafficking network by December 31, 2029.

Financial trail reveals alleged hawala transactions worth ₹100 crore

Investigators uncovered hawala transactions estimated at around ₹100 crore during the operation. Authorities also froze 1,424 bank accounts and attached assets worth ₹17.82 crore. In addition, 500 detonators and ₹12 lakh in cash were seized.

Cross-border routes under investigation

The investigation found that the network allegedly used trafficking routes connecting Myanmar, India and Bangladesh to smuggle methamphetamine and heroin. Raids were carried out in Aizawl, Champhai and Zokhawthar in Mizoram, Churachandpur in Manipur, and the Cachar region of Assam.

Multiple agencies coordinate crackdown

The NCB led the operation in coordination with the Mizoram Police, the Enforcement Directorate and other central and state agencies. Investigators focused not only on the alleged drug supply chain but also on suspected illegal financial transactions and the network of individuals believed to be assisting the operation.