Recidivism in Pabna’s Illicit Synthetic Milk Trade

Authorities in the Bhangura Upazila of Pabna have intensified their crackdown on the production of synthetic milk following the arrest and sentencing of a repeat offender. Despite previous financial penalties and legal interventions, illicit factories continue to operate within the region, posing significant risks to public health.

Recent Enforcement Action

On the night of Friday, April 17, 2026, a mobile court led by the Acting Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) and Executive Magistrate, Mizanur Rahman, conducted a midnight raid in Shingari Jagannathpur village. The operation targeted a facility owned by 40-year-old Faruk Hossain, who was found to be manufacturing large quantities of counterfeit milk.

Under Section 50 of the Consumer Rights Protection Act, 2009, the magistrate sentenced Faruk Hossain to one year of simple imprisonment. In addition to the custodial sentence, a fine of 100,000 BDT was imposed. During the raid, law enforcement seized and subsequently destroyed 200 litres of prohibited glucose jelly and various chemical agents used in the production process.

Patterns of Recidivism

This latest conviction marks a significant escalation in penalties for Mr Hossain. On 22 October 2024, he had been apprehended for the same offence and fined 50,000 BDT. However, investigations revealed that he resumed operations shortly after his previous release, ignoring administrative warnings.

Faruk Hossain is not an isolated case. Local reports indicate that several other individuals in the Upazila remain active in the trade despite prior legal actions:

Production Methods and Distribution

The synthetic milk is reportedly manufactured by mixing prohibited glucose jelly, soya bean oil, and various industrial chemicals to mimic the appearance and consistency of natural dairy. These products are then distributed to local chilling centres and eventually supplied to markets across the country.

Local dairy farmers have expressed grave concerns regarding the integrity of the supply chain. Amirul Islam, a legitimate farmer from Bhangura Market, noted that while genuine farmers deliver milk during standard morning and evening windows, certain chilling centres receive suspicious bulk deliveries throughout the night.

Administrative Stance

Executive Magistrate Mizanur Rahman reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating food adulteration. He stated that the destruction of the 200 litres of seized chemicals was a necessary step in protecting the public interest. He further emphasised that surveillance on chilling centres must be increased to ensure that synthetic products do not enter the formal food network. The administration has pledged to continue these unannounced raids to deter habitual offenders.