ED searches 16 places linked to smuggling of foreign-origin betel nut via the Indo-Myanmar border
The Enforcement Directorate has raided 16 locations across Assam and West Bengal linked to a large-scale betel nut smuggling racket. The operation involved bypassing customs at the Indo-Myanmar border using forged documents and front companies.
Why it matters
This investigation highlights significant gaps in border security and the use of shell companies to facilitate illegal cross-border trade.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has conducted searches at multiple locations in connection with the smuggling of foreign-origin areca nut (betel nut) into India through the Indo-Myanmar border.
The searches were carried out at 16 places in Guwahati in Assam; and Siliguri, Bagdogra, Phansidewa and Cooch Behar in West Bengal. The premises were linked to DNG Biotech Private Limited, Jai Karni Tradings Private Limited, Purvottar Agro Private Limited, N.R. Associates, and connected individuals, the agency said on Monday (October 5, 2026). Unaccounted cash of about ₹95 lakh was seized, fixed deposits worth nearly ₹85 lakh have been frozen.
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