Shock at Assam-Tripura Border: Large Consignment of Narcotic Cough Syrup Seized, Questions Raised Over Two-Night Delay

A massive seizure of narcotic-laden cough syrup at the Churaibari watch post in Assam’s Sribhumi district has sparked controversy along the Assam-Tripura border. The truck carrying the contraband was stopped on Friday night but was officially displayed and sealed only on Sunday morning, raising serious questions about the mysterious two-night delay. According to sources, around 11:45 PM on Friday, a twelve-wheeler truck (WB-23-D-7176) traveling from West Bengal to Tripura was intercepted by Assam police at the Churaibari watch post. Initially, the truck was claimed to be carrying tar, but upon thorough inspection, a massive stock of “ESKUF” narcotic cough syrup was discovered hidden behind drums. Police recovered approximately 21,600 bottles from 144 cartons, with each carton containing 150 bottles. The estimated black-market value of the seized syrup is around ₹1.08 crore. The truck driver, Syed Afridi of West Bengal, confessed to transporting the consignment from Malda for a payment of ₹12,000, claiming ignorance about the true owner of the cargo. However, suspicions have emerged as the truck was detained Friday night but only shown and sealed on Sunday morning. Reports suggest that during this interval, a significant portion of the syrup may have gone missing. Witnesses claim that two suspicious vehicles with AS registration numbers were seen circling near the Assam-Tripura border, potentially involved in diverting the consignment. The incident has raised serious concerns over accountability within the police ranks, with local residents demanding a transparent investigation. Assam police have registered a case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and launched an inquiry, while calls grow for strict action against those responsible to prevent the spread of illegal drugs.