Silchar, July 1: In a major blow to interstate contraband trafficking, the Assam Rifles, in a joint operation with the Customs Department, Silchar, seized a consignment of illegal foreign cigarettes valued at approximately ₹2.8 crore.

According to officials, the contraband was intercepted while being transported through Kalain and was allegedly destined for distribution in Meghalaya and other states. Acting on specific intelligence, the joint team launched a coordinated operation, leading to the successful recovery of the smuggled consignment.
The seized cigarettes were taken into custody, and further legal proceedings have been initiated under the relevant provisions of law. Authorities are also investigating the smuggling network to identify those involved in the transportation and distribution of the illegal goods.
Officials said the seizure represents a significant success in ongoing efforts to curb interstate smuggling and dismantle organised contraband networks operating in the region. They added that illegal trade not only causes substantial revenue losses to the exchequer but also fuels organised criminal activities.
The operation highlights the close coordination between the Assam Rifles and the Customs Department in strengthening border security and preventing the movement of illicit goods across state boundaries.
Reaffirming their commitment to safeguarding the region from illegal trade and smuggling, officials said such intelligence-based operations will continue to target organised trafficking networks and ensure strict enforcement of the law.