Did Bangladesh Customs Just Seize Poppy Seeds from Pakistan?
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Synopsis
In a shocking discovery, Bangladesh Customs officials at Chattogram port uncovered a massive shipment disguised as bird feed. This operation led to the seizure of 25 tonnes of poppy seeds, revealing a serious attempt to smuggle narcotics. The story unfolds with alarming details about the customs operation and the legal implications that follow.
Key Takeaways
- 32-tonne shipment seized at Chattogram port.
- Containers falsely declared as bird feed.
- 25 tonnes of poppy seeds were concealed inside.
- Legal proceedings are ongoing under the Customs Act, 2023.
- Authorities are enhancing vigilance over import regulations.
Dhaka, Nov 10 (NationPress) Customs officials in Bangladesh seized a 32-tonne shipment at Chattogram port that had been fraudulently declared as bird feed. Upon inspection, it was revealed to contain 25 tonnes of illegal poppy seeds, as reported by local news.
According to a statement from the customs authority, the seizure was executed by the Audit, Investigation and Research (AIR) division of Chattogram Customs following a tip-off.
The two containers, imported from Pakistan on October 9 by Messrs Adib Trading located in Chattogram's Kotwali area, claimed to carry 32,010 kilograms of bird food.
Acting on intelligence, the AIR team suspended the release of the containers and performed a joint inspection on October 22 at the depot of Sabeer Ahmed Timber Company Limited, in the presence of depot officials and the customs Clearing and Forwarding (C&F) agent.
The examination uncovered only 7,200 kilograms of the declared bird food, while an astonishing 24,960 kilograms of poppy seeds were hidden beneath.
Samples from the confiscated items were subsequently sent for testing to the Plant Quarantine Wing at Chattogram Port, the Nanotechnology Centre of Dhaka University, and Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET).
Laboratory analyses conducted by the Plant Quarantine Office and KUET confirmed that the substance was indeed poppy seeds, which are classified as a 'Category A narcotic' under the Bangladesh Narcotics Control Act, 2018.
According to H M Kabir, the Deputy Commissioner of Customs in Bangladesh, the importers attempted to smuggle these banned seeds by layering bird food at the container doors to obscure the illegal items.
“While poppy seeds, locally known as 'posto dana', can sometimes be used as a spice, their import is strictly forbidden under Article 3(1)(b), Serial No. 15 of the Import Policy Order 2021–2024,” The Business Standard quoted Kabir.
The consignment, originally valued at Tk30 lakh by the importer, was found to possess a market value of approximately Tk6.5 crore after inspection. Legal actions are currently in progress under the Customs Act, 2023,” he added.
Point of View
I must emphasize the critical role of customs in safeguarding our borders. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges we face in combating drug smuggling and the importance of stringent import regulations. While the discovery is alarming, it also demonstrates the effectiveness of our customs authorities in acting on intelligence and maintaining vigilance.
NationPress
10/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was found in the containers seized by Bangladesh Customs?
The containers, falsely declared as bird feed, contained 25 tonnes of illegal poppy seeds.
Who imported the seized containers?
The containers were imported by Messrs Adib Trading from Chattogram's Kotwali area.
What legal actions are being taken regarding the seized shipment?
Legal proceedings are currently underway under the Customs Act, 2023.
Why are poppy seeds prohibited in Bangladesh?
Poppy seeds are classified as a 'Category A narcotic' under the Bangladesh Narcotics Control Act, 2018.
What is the market value of the seized shipment?
The shipment, originally valued at Tk30 lakh, was found to have a market value of approximately Tk6.5 crore.
