Mizoram police and Assam Rifles have intercepted a large cache of explosives believed to be intended for anti-junta resistance forces in Myanmar. This is the second major seizure of weapons and explosives in recent weeks. Officials have noted a rise in smuggling activities through Mizoram's porous border with Myanmar, likely due to the ban on vehicle movements between the two countries in Manipur. The Indian government has begun fencing the Indo-Myanmar border to curb these illegal activities.
Background
Mizoram, a state in northeastern India, shares a porous border with Myanmar. In recent years, the region has witnessed an increase in smuggling activities, including the trafficking of weapons and explosives into Myanmar. This has been attributed to the ban on vehicle movement between Myanmar and Manipur, another northeastern Indian state.
The Seizure
On March 8, 2023, Mizoram Police and Assam Rifles, a paramilitary force, intercepted a large cache of explosives in the Champai district of Mizoram. The explosives, which included landmines, grenades, and detonators, were reportedly intended for anti-junta resistance forces in Myanmar.
This is the second major seizure of weapons and explosives in Mizoram in recent weeks. In February, officials apprehended a large consignment of arms and ammunition at the Indo-Myanmar border.
Indian Government's Response
The Indian government has been concerned about the rise in smuggling activities in Mizoram. In response, the government has begun fencing the Indo-Myanmar border to curb these illegal activities.
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