New Delhi. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday conducted searches at 16 locations in connection with an alleged smuggling network involving foreign-origin areca nuts being brought into India through the India-Myanmar border. The searches were carried out in Guwahati in Assam and Siliguri, Bagdogra, Phansidewa and Cooch Behar in West Bengal. During the operation, the agency claimed to have seized unaccounted cash worth around ₹95 lakh and frozen fixed deposits valued at approximately ₹85 lakh.
According to the investigation agency, the premises searched were linked to DNG Biotech Private Limited, Jai Karni Tradings Private Limited, Purvottar Agro Private Limited, N.R. Associates and certain individuals associated with them. The action forms part of an investigation into the alleged illegal import of foreign-origin dried areca nuts into India and their subsequent distribution to different parts of the country.
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The ED investigation is based on 11 First Information Reports (FIRs) registered by the Assam and West Bengal police. On the basis of facts emerging from these cases and suspected financial transactions, the agency has expanded its probe into individuals and business entities allegedly connected with the cross-border smuggling of areca nuts.
According to the alleged modus operandi identified during the investigation, consignments of foreign-origin dried areca nuts were transported by road up to the India-Myanmar border. The consignments were brought to areas on the Myanmar side opposite Champhai in Mizoram. The areca nuts were then allegedly transported across the Tiau River in small lots to enter India.
The agency has alleged that the network bypassed the Land Customs Station (LCS) at Zokhawthar in Mizoram. Instead of passing through the formal customs route, the consignments were allegedly split into smaller quantities and ferried across the river, allowing the operators to evade the regular customs process.
The ED suspects that the activity was not limited to isolated incidents but involved an organised network allegedly engaged in smuggling and distribution. The agency is examining how the foreign-origin areca nuts were moved from the border areas to different parts of India and how the proceeds generated through the alleged trade were transferred and utilised.
During the searches, the agency reportedly seized around ₹95 lakh in cash for which the concerned parties allegedly could not provide a satisfactory account. In addition, fixed deposits worth approximately ₹85 lakh were frozen. The ED is examining the source of these financial assets and their alleged links with the proceeds or operations of the smuggling network.
The illegal movement of foreign-origin areca nuts into India has remained a concern in the northeastern region, particularly in relation to border management, customs enforcement and revenue losses. The difficult terrain along several stretches of the India-Myanmar border and movement across remote areas can pose challenges for enforcement agencies. Identifying routes, transportation arrangements and financial channels used by alleged smuggling networks is therefore an important part of such investigations.
The ED is now examining the identities and roles of people allegedly involved in the network, the manner in which funds were arranged for the purchase and transportation of foreign-origin areca nuts, and the traders or entities to which the consignments were allegedly supplied after entering India. Bank accounts, financial records and other documents linked to the companies and individuals under scrutiny are also being examined.
Following the searches, the agency may widen its investigation into the alleged financial network and assets associated with the smuggling operation. The ED is currently examining documents, digital records and other material recovered during the searches to determine the next course of action.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
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