HT Digital
Guwahati, Nov 15: An operation in Assam’s Bajali district on Friday, Nov 14 resulted in the seizure of more than four tonnes of suspected Burmese-origin betel nut, marking a major strike against the growing cross-border smuggling network in the region. Acting on specific intelligence, police set up a checkpoint at Bhawanipur to track a truck reportedly transporting contraband towards Barpeta.
The intercepted vehicle carried hidden chambers that raised immediate suspicion. A thorough search carried out under legal procedures led officers to recover 4,296 kg of betel nut believed to have been smuggled into Assam. The driver, Sanidul Islam, and the handyman, Rajibul Islam, both from Barpeta district, were taken into custody for questioning.
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The consignment began its journey in Imphal, passed into Assam through Merapani in Golaghat district, and headed for a warehouse in Kaljhar, Barpeta. During the probe, police identified the alleged organiser behind the network and moved swiftly to track him down. Officers later confirmed the arrest of the main accused, Aainal Haque, who is suspected to have coordinated the shipment.
Investigation is ongoing to determine the full scale of the smuggling chain and to uncover potential links to larger interstate and international routes that continue to fuel the illegal betel nut trade.
