To mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Press Information Bureau, Shillong, in collaboration with the Office of the Commissioner, Customs (Preventive), NER Headquarters, Shillong, organised a media interaction under the banner ‘Varta’ at the CGST Hall, Shillong today. The programme brought together senior officials from the Customs Department and members of the media for an in-depth discussion on the rising drug trafficking threats in the Northeast and the enforcement measures being undertaken to counter them. Delivering a comprehensive presentation, Shri Spencer M. Mylliem, Joint Commissioner, Customs, shed light on the recent trends in the movement of drugs from neighbouring Myanmar, revealing how the region is increasingly being used as a transit as well as consumption corridor. He outlined patterns in trafficking, key enforcement actions, major seizures, and the critical role of inter-agency coordination. “The region is witnessing a surge in synthetic drug smuggling, especially amphetamine, largely trafficked from Myanmar. This is closely tied to the political instability in the region and porous border areas,” said Shri Mylliem. The Joint Commissioner explained that the Customs (Preventive) NER has stepped up efforts through a variety of measures across all the Northeastern states. Shri Spencer said that their department relies heavily on informants, reward mechanisms, and inter-agency coordination, while adding that the Custom officers across the Northeast have made significant seizures in close collaboration with BSF, Assam Rifles and state police forces, enabling joint raids and follow-up investigations. “Our enforcement efforts depend on timely intelligence and strong collaboration with partner agencies. Regular joint meetings and shared operations are crucial,” he added. The presentation mapped out major smuggling corridors throughout the Northeast and showcased several recent seizure cases. Shri Mylliem stressed that Customs operations, though enforcement-driven, are also backed by awareness campaigns and community outreach. “Our aim is not just to curb supply but also to reduce demand. Long-term strategies must include rehabilitation, legal reforms, and public engagement,” he said. “Customs alone cannot fight this battle. It requires sustained support and collaboration from all enforcement and border agencies, both nationally and internationally.” Senior Customs officials including Deputy Commissioner Shri Hajong and Assistant Commissioner Shri Rasarshi Chakrabarty, as well as officials from PIB and various media representatives were present at the event. The interactive session saw questions raised on emerging trafficking routes, the current trend in Meghalaya, the involvement of foreign nationals, illegal manufacturing units, and international coordination efforts through networks like the Customs Overseas Intelligence Network. A key question pertained to the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988 (PITNDPS Act). In response, Shri Spencer M. Mylliem emphasized that the PITNDPS Act remains a powerful legal tool, especially in cases involving habitual offenders and those linked to organized drug trafficking syndicates. Concerns were also voiced about manpower limitations, and conviction rates. As part of the observance, the Customs Headquarters Office, Shillong also organised a Slogan/Poster Writing and Poetry Competition under the theme “Mission – Drug Free Campus.” Students from five prominent schools—Loreto Convent, Shillong Public School, St. Edmund’s Higher Secondary School, Army Public School, and Duncan Secondary School – actively participated in the event. The young participants creatively expressed their views and emotions on the harmful effects of drug abuse through powerful imagery and heartfelt poetry.