Huge consignment of betel leaves seized at airport

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Apr 4:  Police seized a huge quantity of betel leaves which were brought into the State via two different flights at around noon today.
According to a reliable source, three different flights of Indigo, Air Asia and Spice Jet landed at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport from different parts of the country at around noon and among them, the Spice Jet and Indigo aircraft were found brining in betel leaves from Kolkata.
The source further point-ed out that the flights were hired by betel leaf agents for delivering the said consignment to one Kamo of Yumnam Huidrom.
The betel leaves were seized while they were being transported on the runway after they were unloaded from the cargo chamber of the flights.
On getting news about the transportation of betel leaves at a time when the country and the State are reeling under the brunt of COVID-19 lockdown, many people flocked near the airport to see the consignment.
The source further informed that the Air Asia flight brought in essential medical items and kits for the State to tackle the pandemic.
More Indian Air force planes are set to arrive in the evening carrying essential items as well, the source added.
On the other hand, speaking to media persons, MSF president Bogimayum Sajad stated that the Government must look after the situation seriously, pointing out the shocking irony that at a time when the people are facing shortage of essential items, betel leaves are being given top priorities.
He continued that the seized betel leaves must be disposed by the authorities in front of the public.