Smuggler Arrested in Narayanganj with Indian Sarees Worth 10 Crore Taka

Narayanganj, Bangladesh – The Bangladesh Coast Guard has intercepted a major consignment of Indian sarees, estimated to be worth approximately 10 crore Bangladeshi Taka, that were being smuggled into the country in an attempt to evade customs duties. During the operation, authorities also arrested one individual involved in the illegal trade.

Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq, Media Officer of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, confirmed the seizure on Monday night, 9 February. He stated that the operation was part of the Coast Guard’s ongoing efforts to combat smuggling and curb the circulation of illegally imported goods in the domestic market.

The seizure follows a special operation conducted on Sunday evening, 8 February, near Kanchpur Bridge in Narayanganj by a Coast Guard team from Paglar station. Acting on intelligence, the team stopped a suspicious covered van and conducted a thorough inspection.

Inside the vehicle, authorities discovered a substantial quantity of Indian sarees, brought into Bangladesh without paying the necessary customs duties. The total estimated value of the seized goods stands at BDT 9,96,70,000 (nearly 10 crore). According to the Coast Guard, the sarees were intended for sale within local markets.

The operation led to the arrest of one smuggler, while the van used to transport the contraband was also seized. The confiscated goods are currently being handed over to the Banshal Circle Customs for further legal processing. Meanwhile, the arrested individual and the van are set to be formally transferred to Fatulla Police Station, where legal proceedings will be initiated against them.

Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq emphasised that the Bangladesh Coast Guard regularly conducts operations to prevent smuggling and the illegal importation of goods, stating, “We remain committed to such vigilance and will continue these operations in the future to safeguard the nation’s economy and enforce customs regulations.”

The following table summarises the key details of the operation:

This significant seizure highlights ongoing efforts by Bangladeshi authorities to monitor cross-border trade and enforce regulations against smuggling networks, particularly for high-demand items such as clothing.