Imphal: Manipur Police seized 1,300 bags of urea during two separate operations. They detained multiple vehicles involved in the shipments. Officials confirmed the seizures took place between September 23 and September 25. Officers intercepted 1,200 bags on September 23, followed by another 100 bags two days later.
Authorities have launched a formal inquiry into the smuggling network. They directed the District Agriculture Officer in Bishnupur to verify the fertilizer and suggest next steps. The state agriculture department wants to establish the origin and intended destination of the supply.
Officials linked the urea to illegal poppy cultivation and cross-border trafficking toward Myanmar. Smugglers often hide fertilizer in vehicle convoys during the agricultural off-season. This diversion hurts local farmers and creates artificial supply shortages. According to the official statement, "Urea smuggling in Manipur has been linked by authorities to the illegal poppy cultivation and cross-border trafficking networks operating towards Myanmar."
Police continue to monitor distribution channels. They aim to dismantle the illicit trade routes fueling regional drug production.
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