DRI seizes 71 lakh smuggled foreign cigarettes worth Rs. 14 crore

In a significant operation against smuggling, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 71 lakh foreign-origin cigarette sticks valued at Rs. 14 crore in the North-East region since May 2026. The crackdown also led to the arrest of four individuals.

One of the major operations took place on June 11, 2026, in Mizoram, where over 45 lakh cigarette sticks of brands like Mond, XSo, ORIS, and Patron were confiscated. This operation was conducted with the support of the 34th Battalion of Assam Rifles, resulting in the arrest of one person. Preliminary investigations suggest the cigarettes were smuggled from Myanmar through the Zokhawthar sector along the Indo-Myanmar border.

In addition to this, a series of operations over the past few weeks led to the seizure of another 26 lakh smuggled cigarette sticks and the arrest of three more individuals. These coordinated efforts highlight the DRI's commitment to curbing illegal trade in the region.

The smuggling of foreign-origin cigarettes poses significant challenges, including revenue loss to the government and potential health risks due to unregulated products. The DRI's actions aim to disrupt these illegal networks and safeguard economic and public health interests.

The North-East region, due to its proximity to international borders, remains a critical area for anti-smuggling operations. The DRI continues to work closely with other agencies to strengthen border security and prevent such illicit activities.

Source: Press Information Bureau (Govt. of India) press release, 12 JUN 2026. https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2272123