BSF seizes betel leaves worth Rs 16 lakh

SHILLONG, Feb 23: Three persons were apprehended by the BSF Meghalaya troops while trying to smuggle over 6,000 kg of betel leaves worth Rs 16 lakh to Bangladesh near Dawki, officials said.
Acting on a specific tip-off, BSF troops seized three mini trucks along with drivers and 6,440 kg of betel leaves at Wahkdait near the international border, a BSF spokesperson said.
The vehicles were heading towards the international border when they were intercepted, he added.
According to the BSF, betel leaves are in high demand in Bangladesh, prompting smugglers to earn high profit through illegal trade of these leaves.
The trio, along with the seized items, was handed over to the customs authorities for follow-up action as per law.
The Customs authorities have, meanwhile, said the three persons were arrested and charged as per law of the land. (PTI)