Manipuri Muslims take a stand against drug smuggling

IMPHAL: Anjuman, a Muslim anti-drug organization in Manipur, collaborated with the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) led by Pambei to seize approximately Rs 17 lakh worth of drugs from seven alleged smugglers.

The confiscated drugs were publicly destroyed in a fire on Sunday in Lilong, a Muslim-dominated town, in the presence of media and local residents.

Anjuman's General Secretary, Md Habibullah, announced the arrests during a press conference, revealing the capture of the individuals along with heroin and brown sugar hidden in 40 soap cases. These dealers were said to have operated in Hatta (Imphal East), Kwakta (Bishnupur), Lilong, and Irong (Thoubal) for the past year.

The leader of the drug ring, Heibokmayum Ithem (alias Wahajuddil, 37) from Lilong, was apprehended first, followed by others identified as Heibongmayum Siraj (Kwakta), Md Nawaz (Lilong), MD Fayaz Khan (28), Mayangmayum Champa (36), Mayangmayum Bobby (32) from Hatta, and Chetsabam Juma Khan (Irong).

While the captured individuals were released to their families, the confiscated drugs were incinerated on Sunday afternoon.

It is important to note that the UNLF, led by Pambei, signed a peace accord with the Government of India in November 2023.