A coordinated operation at Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram has led to the seizure of approximately 1,698 cartons of foreign cigarettes and the detention of three passengers. The consignment was recovered from the luggage of passengers arriving on a flight from Sharjah, as well as from unclaimed baggage on the arrival belt area.

The operation took place on Sunday night (31 May) near Gate No. 3 of the airport’s international arrival hall. Multiple agencies took part in the joint enforcement drive, including the National Security Intelligence (NSI), the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), Customs Intelligence and Investigation Directorate, Aviation Security (AVSEC), and the airport customs unit.

According to airport sources, 1,002 cartons of cigarettes were recovered after searching the baggage of three passengers arriving on Air Arabia flight G9-520 from Sharjah. In addition, a further 696 cartons were found abandoned on the arrival luggage belt area, bringing the total seizure to 1,698 cartons.

The seized cigarettes included well-known brands such as “Mond” and “Manchester”. Authorities have estimated the potential government revenue involved in the consignment at approximately BDT 3,396,000.

Three passengers were detained in connection with the illegal transport of the cigarettes. They were identified as Md Mostofa Kamal Suman of Ramganj in Lakshmipur, Mohammad Abdullah Talukder of Hathazari in Chattogram, and Mohammad Nasir Uddin Talukder of Rangunia in Chattogram.

Airport officials later confirmed that the seized goods were recorded under a departmental memorandum and placed under the custody of the Chattogram Customs House. The detained passengers were subsequently released after being verbally cautioned by customs intelligence and the customs authorities.

A public relations officer at Shah Amanat International Airport, Engineer Mohammad Ibrahim Khalil, stated that coordinated surveillance and enforcement measures remain in place to prevent the entry of prohibited goods and to curb customs revenue evasion. He added that airport customs, customs intelligence, and other relevant security and intelligence agencies continue to maintain strict monitoring under the supervision of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh.

Seizure and Detention Summary