NIA unearths network of arms smuggling into Mizoram, Manipur
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, May 26 2024:
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has uncovered the use of hawala channels in transferring payments for smuggling arms and ammunition into Manipur and Mizoram from Myanmar.
According to a report published in the Deccan Herald, the revelation came to light as the NIA conducted raids in six locations, including a gun shop in Mizoram's capital Aizawl, leading to the arrest of a resident named Solomons alias Hminga for his alleged involvement in arms smuggling.
During the operation, a significant quantity of explosive material, ammunition, digital devices, documents, and other incriminating materials were seized, the Deccan Herald cited statement issued by the NIA.
This development follows the earlier arrest of another Mizoram resident, Laigaihawma, in connection with the case.
Investigations have indicated that the accused had established a network in the bordering areas of Myanmar and Mizoram to procure and transfer of arms and ammunition, as well as smuggling explosives into Mizoram and Manipur from across the Myanmar border, the agency reported.
Further, it was revealed that Laigaihawma's associate Lalmuanawma alias Mangliana, who is currently absconding, hails originally from Myanmar.
Together with their associates in Myanmar, they were supplying arms, ammunition, and explosives in Mizoram and Manipur, and were also involved in sending supplies to armed groups based in Myanmar.
The ongoing investigations have uncovered the use of hawala channels in transferring payments for arms and ammunition trafficking, the NIA disclosed.
It is pertinent to note that the NIA initiated its probe into arms smuggling amidst the conflict involving the Meetei and Kuki communities in Manipur, which began in May last year and has resulted in the deaths of over 200 individuals and the displacement of over 60,000 others.
The case was registered by the NIA on December 26, 2023, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Explosive Substances Act, Arms Act, and UA(P) Act, based on information about a large-scale illegal arms, ammunition, and explosives supply network operating in the northeastern region of the country, as per the Deccan Herald report.