Indian law enforcement agencies have launched a major crackdown on an alleged international drug trafficking network after Operation Trident uncovered suspected hawala transactions worth approximately ₹100 crore across India’s northeastern region. The coordinated operation resulted in 18 arrests, the freezing of 1,424 bank accounts and the attachment of properties valued at ₹17.82 crore, according to government information released on October 25 and reported on October 26, 2026.
The operation targeted 38 locations across Assam, Mizoram and Manipur, focusing on the suspected financial and logistical infrastructure supporting cross-border narcotics trafficking. Authorities also reported seizing 500 detonators and ₹12 lakh in cash during the searches.
Coordinated Raids Target Cross-Border Drug Network
Operation Trident was launched on October 23 by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), working alongside the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Mizoram Police and other enforcement agencies. Investigators conducted simultaneous searches to disrupt an alleged transnational syndicate involved in trafficking heroin and methamphetamine.
The investigation identified suspected trafficking routes connecting Myanmar, India’s northeastern states and Bangladesh. Authorities believe the network used these routes to transport illegal drugs while moving proceeds through financial channels designed to conceal their origin.
The coordinated raids covered important locations, including Aizawl, Champhai, Zokhawthar in Mizoram, Churachandpur in Manipur and the Cachar transit corridor in Assam.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the operation, describing it as a significant strike against an international narcotics cartel. He also highlighted cooperation between central agencies and state police forces in disrupting the network’s operations.
Investigators Trace ₹100 Crore in Suspected Hawala Transactions
One of the most significant findings was the identification of nearly ₹100 crore in suspected hawala transactions associated with the alleged trafficking network. Hawala is an informal value-transfer system that operates outside conventional banking channels and can be exploited to move money without transparent financial records.
Investigators reportedly uncovered links between suspected drug proceeds, intermediary accounts and individuals allegedly responsible for transferring funds to suppliers operating across the Myanmar border.
Authorities froze 1,424 bank accounts suspected of being connected to the network, including accounts allegedly used by operators, intermediaries and beneficiaries. Properties worth ₹17.82 crore were also attached as part of the financial investigation.
The agencies are examining financial records and other evidence to establish how the suspected proceeds moved through the network. The reported transaction value represents suspected financial activity under investigation and should not be interpreted as a final judicial determination of criminal proceeds.
Myanmar Connection Raises Security Concerns
The investigation has highlighted the importance of northeastern India as a transit corridor for narcotics originating in the wider Golden Triangle region of Southeast Asia.
According to investigators, heroin and methamphetamine allegedly entered India through border areas in Mizoram and Manipur before being transported to other parts of the country and, in some cases, Bangladesh. The proceeds from drug sales were reportedly channelled back towards suppliers across the border.
Authorities have previously arrested individuals suspected of playing key roles in the alleged syndicate, including Myanmar-based operator Thangcintuang, also known as Chintuang or Tluanga, who was arrested in Delhi earlier in 2026.
Investigators are continuing to examine possible connections between suspected trafficking operations, financial facilitators and logistical networks. The seizure of detonators is another aspect of the operation that authorities may need to investigate further.
Government Intensifies Fight Against Drug Trafficking
Operation Trident reflects a broader enforcement strategy focused on disrupting the financial infrastructure behind organised drug trafficking rather than concentrating exclusively on narcotics seizures.
The government has reiterated its ambition to eliminate drug networks by December 31, 2029. Officials are expected to continue analysing financial evidence, tracing assets and investigating suspected links across state and international borders.
The operation represents a substantial enforcement action, but further investigation and legal proceedings will determine the extent of individual responsibility. Authorities face the continuing challenge of preventing cross-border trafficking while protecting communities from the social and economic consequences of illegal drugs.
