The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has successfully dismantled a cross-border smuggling network involved in trafficking arms, ammunition, and explosives, according to the new agency PTI. The key accused, Lalngaihawma, hailing from the Mamit area of Mizoram, was apprehended in Aizawl based on intelligence regarding the operations of an extensively organised illegal arms and ammunition supply network in specific northeastern states.
The arrest transpired as part of an ongoing investigation initiated by the NIA on December 26 last year. The case encompasses multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the Explosive Substances Act, and the Arms Act, an official spokesperson said.
“The accused, along with others, was engaged in trafficking of arms, ammunition and explosive materials not only in the northeastern states but also across the border. He was working in collusion with various operatives, including insurgent groups situated across the international border,” the spokesperson was quoted as saying by PTI.
The accused, in collaboration with others, was actively involved in the illicit trafficking of arms, ammunition, and explosive material, not only within the northeastern states but also extending across international borders. The spokesperson revealed that Lalngaihawma collaborated with various operatives, including insurgent groups situated beyond the national boundary.
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According to the spokesperson, the conspirators had executed their plans by distributing these terror resources to various individuals within the country and abroad. The apprehended individual is suspected to have played a role in supplying weapons and explosives used in violent terrorist acts and criminal activities across diverse regions.
“These illicit weapons and explosives are suspected to have been used in violent terrorist acts and criminal activities across different regions,” the spokesperson said, adding further investigations to bust the entire network are in progress as per the PTI report.