Gossaigaon: In a major breakthrough against illegal smuggling, Gossaigaon Police in coordination with Srirampur Police seized a large consignment of foreign-made cigarettes during a late-night operation on Monday.
The police team intercepted a truck bearing registration number MH 12 MV 3914, which was reportedly transporting cartons of foreign cigarettes without valid documents. Upon thorough checking, authorities recovered nearly 12,000 pieces of foreign cigarettes, estimated to be worth over ₹20 lakh in the open market.
According to police sources, the consignment is suspected to have been smuggled into the state through illegal trade routes. Two individuals from Uttarakhand — Zul Fikar and Robar Khan were arrested in connection with the case. Preliminary investigations suggest that the truck had entered Assam earlier and was attempting to transport the contraband to another state under the guise of legitimate goods.
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Police officials informed that the smugglers had concealed the cartons in a hidden compartment inside the vehicle to evade detection. The authorities are now probing the broader smuggling network involved and tracking the intended recipients of the seized items.
“The operation was part of our continuous drive against smuggling and illegal trade activities along the border areas,” said a senior police official. “Such operations will continue to ensure that these unlawful networks are dismantled.”
The seized truck and contraband have been taken into custody for detailed investigation. Legal proceedings have been initiated against the accused under relevant sections of the law.
Police have appealed to the public to remain alert and report any information related to smuggling or suspicious movements in the region to help curb the growing menace.
