NIA arrests key accused in cross-border arms and explosives trafficking case

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday busted a network of cross-border smuggling of arms, ammunition and explosives and arrested a key accused in the case.

The accused was identified as Lalngaihawma, a resident of Mamit district of Mizoram. He was arrested in Aizwar Mizoram after he was involved in the operation of a well-organized and large-scale illegal arms and ammunition supply network in some northeastern states.

“According to investigations by the National Intelligence Agency, the accused and others were trafficking arms, ammunition and explosive materials not only within the northeastern states but also across borders. He was in collusion with various operatives, including insurgent groups across international borders,” said an official of the National Intelligence Agency. a statement said.

“As part of their conspiracy, they have distributed such terror hardware to different individuals in India and abroad. These illegal weapons and explosives are suspected to be used in violent terrorist activities and criminal activities in different regions.”

The NIA was registered on December 26, 2023 under Section 120B of the IPC, Section 18 of the UA (P) Act, 1967, Section 6 of the Explosives Act, 1908 and Sections 25 (1) (a) and 25 (1AA) The case Arms Act.