Mizoram Faces Drug Crisis: 4000kg Seized in 3 Years, Volunteers Fight

Mizoram is facing a significant drug crisis, with synthetic drugs like 'Ice' and 'Candy' being smuggled across its 500km open border with Myanmar. The Young Mizo Association (YMA), a community group with around 5 lakh volunteers, has launched 'Operation Jericho' to counter the growing threat. Volunteers patrol sensitive areas, working alongside police and narcotics officials to conduct raids and rescue victims.

In the last three years, approximately 4000kg of drugs have been seized, with the Champhai district identified as a key corridor for smuggling. Social media platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Facebook are reportedly being used for drug transactions, making the trade highly organized and digital. Local networks use code words such as 'Ice' and 'Candy' for these substances.

The crisis has claimed lives, with 118 deaths reported last year and 21 so far this year. Social worker Elin Lalawanipui highlighted the alarming rise in drug addiction cases, noting 239 patients in Aizawl between April 10 and May 28, 2023. Many of these individuals transitioned from alcohol and cannabis to synthetic drugs.

YMA's efforts include deploying volunteers in 13 sensitive villages near the border and collaborating with authorities for raids. However, smugglers have adapted by shifting routes to Manipur, using it as an entry point before distributing drugs to Mizoram and other states.

Key Points

• Mizoram is battling a drug crisis fueled by synthetic drugs from Myanmar.
• Nearly 4000kg of drugs seized in the last three years, with Champhai district as a key smuggling corridor.
• Social media platforms are being used for drug transactions, with code words like 'Ice' and 'Candy'.
• YMA launched 'Operation Jericho' with 5 lakh volunteers to combat the issue.
• Smugglers are now using Manipur routes to evade detection.