DRI Cracks Down on Smuggling: 71 Lakh Foreign Cigarettes Seized

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has intensified its operations against smuggled foreign cigarettes, seizing approximately 71 lakh sticks across the North East since May 2026. The operations, valued at Rs 14 crore, have led to four arrests, including a major seizure in Mizoram involving 45 lakh cigarettes from Myanmar.

In a significant assault on the illicit trade of foreign cigarettes, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) launched a series of coordinated operations across the North Eastern Region. These efforts have resulted in the seizure of around 71 lakh sticks of smuggled cigarettes since May 2026, collectively valued at Rs 14 crore.

One of the most notable operations occurred in Mizoram on June 11, where DRI, with assistance from the 34th Battalion of the Assam Rifles, confiscated over 45 lakh sticks of foreign-origin cigarettes. The high-profile operation led to the arrest of one individual. Early investigations revealed that the cigarettes were trafficked from Myanmar, entering India through the Zokhawthar sector along the Indo-Myanmar border.

Additional operations in the preceding weeks have resulted in the seizure of another 26 lakh cigarettes, culminating in the arrests of three more individuals. The crackdown marks a significant stride in countering cigarette smuggling in the region.