Guwahati: Assam Police carried out a major operation on Sunday night and seized a consignment of 1,59,600 foreign cigarettes and arrested two people. The operation was carried out in Lalmati area of Guwahati. The police had received information that a large quantity of foreign tobacco products was being smuggled, after which the police raided and exposed the matter.
Action based on secret information
The team of Basistha Police Station received secret information that a consignment of foreign cigarettes was coming in a truck in Lalmati area of Guwahati. The police took prompt action and searched a cement laden LP truck, in which a large quantity of ESSE Light Slim Cigarettes was being smuggled. These cigarettes were manufactured by KT & G, Korea. The police arrested both the accused red-handed while unloading the smuggled goods from the truck and loading them in a Tata Intra pickup van.
Identity of the arrested accused
The arrested persons have been identified as Chandan Barman (48) and Pranjal Das (25). Both the accused failed to produce valid documents to prove that they were smuggling cigarettes. Confirming the seizure, Assam Police Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Rajiv Saikia said, “A total of 798 packets, each packet containing 10 boxes and each box containing 20 cigarettes, have been seized. Both the vehicles have also been seized.”
Bigger network suspected, investigation underway
Police officials believe that the smuggling could be part of a larger network. Further investigations are underway in the case, and the police have ensured that all efforts will be made to nab all the suspects. The seized vehicles—an LP truck and a Tata Intra pickup—have been taken into custody by the police and a deeper investigation is now underway.
