Aizawl, October, 2026: In an intensified effort ahead of the forthcoming festive season, Government of Mizoram launched Operation Jericho-2 today, October 31, 2026 to combat the illicit drug trade and the growing incidence of substance abuse. The renewed operation, which takes effect on November 1, 2026, was officially launched by Pu Sharad Agarwal, IPS, Director General of Police, Mizoram, during a programme held at the Multipurpose Hall, Police Headquarters (PHQ). Operation Jericho 2 is aimed at strengthening anti-drug enforcement, preventing the entry and movement of illicit narcotic substances and dismantling networks involved in drug trafficking across the State.
Operation Jericho was initially launched on 1st September 2025 through coordinated efforts involving Mizoram Police, Excise & Narcotics Department and Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA), with the objective of curbing drug trafficking and intensifying enforcement against individuals and networks engaged in the illicit narcotics trade. As part of the initiative, Police personnel were deployed in 22 villages along the Myanmar border in Champhai district. In close coordination with district Police, civil societies, Village Defence Parties (VDPs) and local YMA branches, the deployed personnel undertook sustained efforts to prevent the smuggling of narcotic substances and disrupt trafficking networks operating in these areas.
The initial phase of the operation yielded substantial results. Up to 31st March 2026, when the dedicated deployment of Police personnel in the 22 villages was withdrawn, narcotic substances valued at approximately ₹391.95 crore had been seized. During the same period, 203 cases were registered and 298 persons were arrested. Following the withdrawal of the dedicated deployment, the respective District SP continued the operation through their existing Police forces, ensuring continuity of enforcement activities and sustained action against drug trafficking.
The sustained enforcement efforts under Operation Jericho have continued to produce significant results. As of 26th October 2026, a cumulative total of 447 cases had been registered, 663 persons arrested and narcotic drugs valued at ₹843.47 crore seized in connection with the operation. These achievements demonstrate the continued commitment of the Government of Mizoram and the concerted efforts of the Police and civil society to identify, apprehend and bring to justice those involved in the illicit drug trade.
With the commencement of the festive season approaching, the Government of Mizoram has considered it imperative to further reinforce anti-drug enforcement measures. Accordingly, Operation Jericho 2 will be launched from 2nd November 2026, with the deployment of Police personnel from 1st Bn. MAP, 3rd Bn. MAP, 1st IR Bn. and 5th IR Bn. The operation will be conducted under the supervision of the respective District SP in close coordination with civil society and other relevant stakeholders.
Special emphasis will be placed on bordering districts, considering their strategic importance in preventing the entry, smuggling and onward movement of illicit drugs into the State. Intelligence led enforcement, strengthened inter-agency coordination, effective border vigilance and active community participation will constitute the principal components of this renewed campaign.
The government reiterates that the active participation and cooperation of NGOs, YMA, VDPs and other civil society are indispensable for achieving sustainable results. All sections of society are, therefore, earnestly appealed to remain vigilant and extend their fullest cooperation to the Police by promptly sharing information relating to drug trafficking, drug peddling and other drug related activities with the appropriate authorities.
