In a fresh blow to illegal arms networks operating along the India–Myanmar border, the Assam Rifles, in coordination with Mizoram Police, seized firearms and ammunition and arrested one suspect during a targeted operation in Champhai district. Officials said the action was part of intensified security measures aimed at curbing cross-border smuggling and militancy. Acting on a tip-off, security personnel launched a raid on a residence in Zokhawthar town on September 21. The operation led to the recovery of a 5.56mm M4A1 carbine with magazine, 19 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, and 100 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. The suspect, identified as Robert Vanlalliana, was taken into custody, and further interrogation is underway to trace possible links with smuggling syndicates and armed groups.
The Assam Rifles, in a statement, said the seizure underscored the ongoing threat of arms trafficking through Mizoram’s border districts. Zokhawthar, located close to Myanmar, has long been considered a vulnerable point for cross-border illegal activities, including the movement of weapons, narcotics, and contraband. The latest recovery comes just days after a major cache of arms was discovered near Saikhumphai village on September 19, also in Champhai. That haul included a Heckler & Koch G3 assault rifle, a Springfield sniper rifle, a 60mm mortar tube, 21 assorted rifle cartridges, 13 grenades, and other war-like stores. Security officials said such seizures point to an entrenched network attempting to smuggle high-grade weaponry across the porous border.
Authorities believe the influx of arms poses a serious security challenge for Mizoram and the wider Northeast region. With armed groups in Myanmar facing internal turmoil and instability, Indian security agencies fear that the border may become a hotspot for the trafficking of weapons and ammunition into Indian territory. Officials stressed that the operations are part of sustained efforts by the Assam Rifles to clamp down on illegal arms movement and strengthen security in border districts. Regular patrols, intelligence-sharing, and coordinated raids with Mizoram Police have been stepped up over the past few months.
