📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Abhinav Phangcho Choudhury
Crime
115 Sacks of Smuggled Areca Nuts Seized from Vivek Express in Assam
✍️ India Today NE
🗓 27 Sep 2026, 01:36 PM
👁 13
Indian authorities confiscated 115 sacks of suspected smuggled areca nuts from the Vivek Express train in Assam, a move that underscores the ongoing crackdown on illicit trade.
Indian customs officials and Assam police seized 115 sacks of areca nuts from the Vivek Express train while it was passing through Assam. The cargo, suspected of being smuggled, was found in the train’s luggage compartment.
The seizure was carried out after a routine inspection by the authorities, who identified the sacks as containing areca nuts – a commodity that is heavily taxed and regulated in India. The officials noted that the packaging did not match the required export documentation.
Authorities are investigating the origin of the nuts and the individuals involved in the smuggling operation. They have also opened a case under the Customs Act and the Prevention of Smuggling Act to pursue legal action against the perpetrators.
The incident highlights the Indian government’s continued efforts to curb the illicit trade of agricultural products, particularly those used for chewing, which are often smuggled to avoid high duties and taxes.
The seizure was carried out after a routine inspection by the authorities, who identified the sacks as containing areca nuts – a commodity that is heavily taxed and regulated in India. The officials noted that the packaging did not match the required export documentation.
Authorities are investigating the origin of the nuts and the individuals involved in the smuggling operation. They have also opened a case under the Customs Act and the Prevention of Smuggling Act to pursue legal action against the perpetrators.
The incident highlights the Indian government’s continued efforts to curb the illicit trade of agricultural products, particularly those used for chewing, which are often smuggled to avoid high duties and taxes.