The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday carried out searches at multiple locations in Mizoram as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation linked to an alleged cross-border areca nut smuggling network operating along the India-Myanmar border. Officials said raids were conducted at around nine locations connected to individuals suspected of playing key roles in the alleged racket. The searches focused on areas associated with the smuggling network in Champhai district, which shares an international border with Myanmar. According to the ED, the investigation relates to the alleged large-scale smuggling of Myanmar-origin areca nuts, commonly known as Burmese supari, into India through illegal routes.
The agency alleged that the accused transported consignments across the Tiau River and stored them in warehouses before distributing them within the country. Investigators claimed that forged documents and fake billing practices were used to present the smuggled areca nuts as legally procured local products. Officials said the probe is examining what they described as a well-organised network that allegedly generated significant illegal proceeds through the smuggling operation. The ED further alleged that the money earned from the activities was layered and routed through different channels to conceal its origin and avoid detection. The central agency also claimed that some individuals misused their local tribal status by acting as front claimants before customs authorities. According to the ED, these persons allegedly submitted fabricated import-related documents to secure the release of consignments that had been seized by authorities.
The searches were conducted under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). During the raids, officials examined documents, financial records and other materials that may be relevant to the investigation. The ED said the investigation remains ongoing and further action will depend on the analysis of evidence collected during the searches. Authorities are expected to scrutinise the seized documents and financial transactions to establish the extent of the alleged smuggling and money laundering activities. No arrests had been reported at the time of filing this report.
