The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) on Thursday carried out extensive search operations at nine locations in Champhai, a border town situated along the Mizoram-Myanmar frontier.

The action forms part of an ongoing investigation into an organised cross-border network allegedly involved in the large-scale smuggling of illegal Burmese supari, also known as dry areca nuts, into India.

The raids are primarily targeting the residences and business establishments of individuals suspected of playing significant roles in facilitating the smuggling operation.

According to investigators, the accused allegedly coordinated the movement, storage, and distribution of Myanmar-origin consignments entering Indian territory through unauthorised channels.

Preliminary findings indicate that smugglers transported the contraband across the Tiu River from Myanmar and stored it in local warehouses in Champhai.

Investigators allege that the network used forged documents and fraudulent e-way bills to present the illegal imports as legitimate local purchases, allowing the goods to enter commercial markets without attracting scrutiny.

The ED has alleged that the illicit trade generated and circulated hundreds of crores of rupees through a complex system of financial transactions.

Investigators believe the accused systematically layered the proceeds to conceal their origin, raising serious concerns about money laundering and organised economic crime.