Agartala, March 12, 2025 — In a significant operation to curb cross-border drug smuggling, Assam Rifles, in a joint effort with the Customs Department, seized a massive consignment of 5,500 bottles of banned Phensedyl Cough Syrup from a jungle area near Kalachhara, Agartala. The contraband is estimated to be worth approximately Rs 99 lakh in the international black market, marking one of the largest seizures in recent months.
Phensedyl Syrup Smuggling Foiled in Northeast India
According to official sources, the operation was launched following specific intelligence inputs regarding the movement of illegal substances along the border areas. Acting swiftly, the joint team of Assam Rifles and Customs officials carried out a detailed search operation in the dense jungle terrain near Kalachhara, which is known as a hotspot for smuggling routes into neighboring countries.
Phensedyl Cough Syrup, which contains codeine, is a controlled substance often abused as a narcotic in many South Asian countries. Its smuggling across the India-Bangladesh border has been a persistent challenge for law enforcement agencies.
Customs to Lead Investigation and Legal Action
Following the seizure, the entire consignment has been formally handed over to the Customs Department for thorough investigation and further legal proceedings. Officials stated that investigations are underway to identify the individuals and networks involved in the attempted smuggling operation.
The Customs Department has confirmed that stringent action will be taken against those responsible, including prosecution under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and related legal provisions.
Assam Rifles’ Continued Vigilance Against Drug Smuggling
This operation underscores the relentless efforts of Assam Rifles in safeguarding the borders of Northeast India against illegal activities, including drug trafficking.
Recognized as the Sentinels of the Northeast, Assam Rifles have been at the forefront of anti-smuggling operations, contributing significantly to regional security and stability.
Officials from Assam Rifles have reiterated their commitment to continue similar operations to prevent the inflow of narcotics and other contraband items, protecting the youth and society from the adverse effects of drug abuse.
Rising Concern Over Drug Trafficking in Northeast India
The Northeast region of India, due to its proximity to international borders, has become a vulnerable route for drug traffickers. Border areas like Tripura, Mizoram, and Manipur have been repeatedly used by smuggling syndicates to transport banned substances such as heroin, methamphetamine, and codeine-based syrups like Phensedyl.
Security experts emphasize that strengthened vigilance, better intelligence sharing, and community involvement are essential to disrupt these trafficking networks.
Conclusion: A Strong Message to Smugglers
This successful seizure of Rs 99 lakh worth of banned Phensedyl bottles sends a strong message to drug traffickers operating in the region. It reaffirms the determination of Indian security and customs agencies to maintain strict surveillance along the borders and crack down on the illegal drug trade that threatens the youth and social fabric of the region.
