Key Facts
In a major crackdown, security forces in Manipur seized 15.35 kg of suspected opium from a vehicle fitted with fake army insignia. The driver, identified as Tarkeshwar Singh (45) of Hijuguri Gaon in Tinsukia district, Assam, was arrested on Sunday at a check-post in Senapati district.
Details of the Seizure
The operation was conducted at around 9 am at the T Khellen check-post by a joint team comprising the Senapati Operation Team (SOT), D-78 CRPF, B-109 QAT CRPF, and 16 Assam Rifles, under the supervision of Senapati Superintendent of Police Zaib Shaikh.
The vehicle, bearing registration number AS23AK 5541, was fitted with a VIP flag post and was travelling without any escort, which raised suspicion. Upon inspection, police found that the car displayed the insignia of an Army Brigadier (VIP flag post and one star). Additionally, a nameplate inscribed with 'ARMY' on one side and 'MINISTRY OF DEFENCE' on the other was recovered from inside the vehicle.
During a thorough search, officers discovered 17 packets of opium weighing approximately 15.35 kg concealed in a compartment under the rear right door of the car.
Investigation and Arrest
Police confirmed that neither the vehicle nor the driver belonged to the army. Tarkeshwar Singh admitted to using the army insignia and nameplate solely to evade police checks. He was arrested on the spot, and the seizure was carried out in the presence of an executive magistrate.
Besides the contraband, authorities seized the vehicle, its key and number plate, two mobile phones, ₹5,000 in cash, a PAN card, and a voter ID card from the accused's possession.
Legal Action
A case has been registered at Senapati police station under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Further investigation is underway.
FAQ
How much opium was seized in the Manipur fake army car case?
Security forces seized 15.35 kg of suspected opium concealed in a vehicle with fake army credentials.
Who was arrested in the Manipur drug smuggling case?
The driver, Tarkeshwar Singh (45), a resident of Hijuguri Gaon in Tinsukia district, Assam, was arrested.
What charges have been filed against the accused?
A case has been registered under relevant sections of the NDPS Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).