Shillong, June 26: The North East region is witnessing a surge in synthetic drug smuggling, especially amphetamine, largely trafficked from Myanmar.
Joint Commissioner of Customs (Preventive), NE region Spencer M Mylliem said that this is closely tied to the political instability in the region and porous border areas.
He was addressing journalists during a media interaction( Varta) organised by the Press information Bureau (PIB) with with the Customs (Preventive), Shillong on the occasion of international Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Spencer spoke on the recent trends in the movement of drugs from neighbouring Myanmar, revealing how the region is increasingly being used as a transit as well as consumption corridor. He outlined patterns in trafficking, key enforcement actions, major seizures, and the critical role of inter-agency coordination.
Spencer said that the department relies heavily on informants, reward mechanisms, and inter-agency coordination.
The Customs officers across the Northeast have made significant seizures in close collaboration with BSF, Assam Rifles and state police forces, enabling joint raids and follow-up investigations. “Our enforcement efforts depend on timely intelligence and strong collaboration with partner agencies. Regular joint meetings and shared operations are crucial,” he said.
The presentation made by the official highlighted major smuggling corridors throughout the Northeast and showcased several recent seizure cases.
Spencer said Customs operations, though enforcement-driven, are also backed by awareness campaigns and community outreach. “Our aim is not just to curb supply but also to reduce demand. Long-term strategies must include rehabilitation, legal reforms, and public engagement. Customs alone cannot fight this battle. It requires sustained support and collaboration from all enforcement and border agencies, both nationally and internationally”, he said.
Senior Customs officials including Deputy Commissioner MR Hajong and Assistant Commissioner Rasarshi Chakrabarty, as well as officials from PIB and various media representatives were present at the event.
The interactive session saw questions raised on emerging trafficking routes, the current trend in Meghalaya, the involvement of foreign nationals, illegal manufacturing units, and international coordination efforts through networks like the Customs Overseas Intelligence Network. A key question was on the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988 (PITNDPS Act). In response, Spencer emphasized that the PITNDPS Act remains a powerful legal tool, especially in cases involving habitual offenders and those linked to organized drug trafficking syndicates. Concerns were also voiced about manpower limitations, and conviction rates.
As part of the observance, the Customs Headquarters Office, Shillong also organised a Slogan/Poster Writing and Poetry Competition under the theme “Mission – Drug Free Campus.” Students from five prominent schools—Loreto Convent, Shillong Public School, St. Edmund’s Higher Secondary School, Army Public School, and Duncan Secondary School – participated in the event. The young participants expressed their views and emotions on the harmful effects of drug abuse through powerful imagery and poetry.
