A large consignment of smuggled cigarettes, valued at approximately 2.7 million Bangladeshi Taka (around 27 lakh), has been seized at Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram during a coordinated enforcement operation involving multiple intelligence and customs agencies.
The seizure took place at around 11:00 pm on Saturday night in the airport’s international arrival hall. The operation was jointly conducted by the National Security Intelligence (NSI), the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), Customs Intelligence, and the airport’s Customs Division.
According to the airport’s public relations officer, Engineer Mohammad Ibrahim Khalil, officials acted on coordinated intelligence inputs and intensified surveillance within the terminal to intercept illicit goods entering the country through passenger baggage channels.
During the operation, authorities discovered a significant quantity of cigarettes left unattended on baggage belt number one in the international arrival area. In addition, a separate passenger baggage inspection led to further recovery of contraband items.
Breakdown of Seizures
| Location / Source of Recovery | Quantity (Cartons) | Additional Items Found | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unattended luggage belt (No. 1) | 1,065 | 1 laptop | No claimant identified |
| Passenger baggage (Salam Air flight OV-493 from Muscat) | 280 | None | Passenger identified and questioned |
The passenger linked to the second consignment was identified as Md Shamsuddin, a resident of Chakaria upazila in Cox’s Bazar district. He arrived on Salam Air flight OV-493 from Muscat. Following initial questioning by Customs Intelligence and the Customs Division, he was released after receiving a verbal warning, officials confirmed.
In total, 1,345 cartons of cigarettes were confiscated and subsequently placed under the custody of Chattogram Customs House for further legal and procedural action.
Officials noted that the ongoing interception of such consignments highlights persistent attempts to smuggle restricted and high-tax goods through international airports, often using passenger luggage channels or unclaimed baggage tactics.
Authorities further emphasised that surveillance measures at the airport have been significantly strengthened. Regular joint operations involving intelligence agencies and customs officials are being conducted to prevent smuggling activities, curb revenue leakage, and ensure strict enforcement of import regulations.
They added that similar operations will continue in the future as part of broader efforts to maintain security and safeguard state revenue at all points of entry.
