Authorities in Faridpur have uncovered a large-scale operation producing adulterated date and sugarcane jaggery using harmful substances including shoe glue, alum, non-food-grade dyes, banned hydrogen, and low-quality cattle-feed molasses. The tainted products were reportedly being distributed across multiple districts, raising serious public health concerns.
The illegal operation, which had reportedly continued for an extended period, had largely evaded law enforcement. Swapan Kumar Shil, the alleged owner, had established a sprawling factory in Chhoto Battala, Shibrampur, fortified with high tin fencing and CCTV surveillance. Production reportedly ran around the clock under unhygienic conditions, with low-grade molasses imported from India delivered daily by truck. Despite numerous complaints circulating on social media, locals alleged that the factory continued to operate unchecked due to the influence of powerful backers.
Following new allegations, a raid was conducted by Assistant Commissioner Md Atikur Rahman, accompanied by officials from the Food Safety Authority and the Consumer Rights Directorate. By the time authorities arrived, the owner and workers had fled. During the operation, officials seized and destroyed 6,500 kg of adulterated jaggery, alongside various chemicals and production equipment, and sealed the factory to prevent further operations.
Assistant Commissioner Rahman confirmed that a case had been filed under the Safe Food Act, although the owner remains at large. Locals have demanded strict punishment for those responsible, warning of the severe health risks posed by such malpractice.
Key Details of Faridpur Jaggery Factory Raid
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Chhoto Battala, Shibrampur, Faridpur |
| Owner | Swapan Kumar Shil (at large) |
| Seized Goods | 6,500 kg adulterated jaggery, chemicals, production equipment |
| Adulterants Detected | Shoe glue, alum, non-food-grade dyes, banned hydrogen, poor-quality molasses |
| Authorities Involved | Assistant Commissioner Md Atikur Rahman, Food Safety Authority, Consumer Rights Directorate |
| Legal Action | Case filed under the Safe Food Act |
| Outcome | Factory sealed, products destroyed, owner remains fugitve |
Officials have emphasised the need for strict enforcement of food safety laws to protect consumers from hazardous substances. The case has sparked widespread public concern, highlighting persistent challenges in monitoring large-scale food production and preventing illegal operations in the region.