Narayanganj, Bangladesh: In a major anti-smuggling operation, the Bangladesh Coast Guard has intercepted a large consignment of Indian sarees worth nearly 100 crore Bangladeshi Taka, arresting one individual involved in the illicit trade. The haul was reportedly being smuggled into the country while evading customs duties.
Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq, the media officer of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, confirmed the operation on Monday night (9 February). The successful seizure follows a carefully planned raid by a Coast Guard team stationed at Pagla, Narayanganj.
According to reports, the team had been monitoring suspicious movements in the vicinity of Kanchpur Bridge. On Sunday evening (8 February), during a targeted inspection, authorities stopped a covered van and conducted a thorough search. Inside, they discovered a large quantity of Indian sarees, with an estimated market value of BDT 99,670,000.
The Coast Guard stated that the smuggled sarees were intended for sale within the local market. The operation resulted in the seizure of the entire consignment along with the van used in the smuggling, and the arrest of one suspect. The confiscated goods are being handed over to the Banshal Circle Customs for further processing.
Meanwhile, legal action is being prepared against the arrested individual and the vehicle, which will be formally handed over to Fatulla Police Station under applicable laws.
Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq emphasised that the Bangladesh Coast Guard regularly conducts operations to curb smuggling and the illegal movement of goods. “We remain committed to preventing contraband from entering the country. Such operations will continue in the future to protect national revenue and maintain market integrity,” he added.
Summary of the Operation:
| Item Seized / Action Taken | Quantity / Value | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Indian sarees | Approx. BDT 99,670,000 | Smuggled via covered van, intended for local sale |
| Covered van | 1 | Used in smuggling, confiscated |
| Suspect | 1 person | Arrested, legal action pending |
| Handed over to | Banshal Circle Customs | For further processing |
| Law enforcement | Fatulla Police Station | Suspect and vehicle under legal jurisdiction |
The successful operation reflects the Bangladesh Coast Guard’s ongoing vigilance in monitoring trade routes and preventing evasion of customs duties. Authorities have reiterated that coordinated efforts with customs and local law enforcement are central to tackling smuggling networks operating in the region.