Our Correspondent
New Delhi:
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched a massive search operation in Mizoram following reports that explosives meant for construction activities in the state are diverted to Myanmar-based militant outfits, on June 25.
A massive search operation is underway in different places of Mizoram by the NIA over the seizure of 2421.12 kgs of explosives including 1000 detonators, 4500 metres of detonating fuse, Indian and Myanmarese currency from a vehicle in Zawnling area under Tipa Police Station on June 24.
Searches were conducted at five locations in Aizawl, Champai and Kolasib districts of Mizoram in a case number RC 09/2022/NIA/DLI.
“This consignment was meant for a Myanmar-based outfit Chin National Front (CNF) which is in the process of accumulating arms and ammunition for resisting the government of Myanmar,” the NIA said.
The case was initially registered as FIR No. 01/2022 on January 21 this year at the Tipa police station in Saiha district which was later re-registered by NIA.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has also expressed serious concern over the seizure of such a huge consignment of explosives from Mizoram.
In fact, the Home Ministry has already asked the Mizoram government to conduct an audit of the gelatin obtained by them for road construction and other development activities.
“We have asked the Mizoram government to do an audit of the gelatin obtained by them for developmental activities,” a senior official in the MHA told The Meghalayan on the condition of anonymity.
During the searches conducted on Friday, digital devices and incriminating documents have been seized.
Authorities in India mainly use detonators and detonating fuse (detonating cord) for road construction activities.
Security agencies suspect that the gelatin obtained by some of the Northeastern states for road construction works is reaching the Myanmar militant outfits.
Security forces in Mizoram especially Assam Rifles conducted a number of seizures of explosives in this bordering state in the recent past. Incidents of such seizure are taking place in Mizoram quite often ever since the military overtook power in Myanmar last year.
Mizoram shares its 510-km long porous border with Myanmar. The Myanmar government has recently raised its concern with the Indian authorities following the seizure of explosives from the bordering state.