The Mizoram government has warned that strict action will be taken against anyone involved in cross-border areca nut smuggling, including government officials. Home Minister K. Sapdanga emphasized the commitment to eradicating this illegal trade and noted the government’s efforts to purge corrupt elements from the system. He remarked that restrictions on foreign imports have positively impacted local areca nut growers, especially in Mamit district. Additionally, he announced the intensification of ‘Operation Jericho,’ a joint initiative aimed at combating the drug trafficking crisis in the state, where over 10,000 drug addicts are reported in Aizawl, raising safety concerns.
