The Customs Intelligence and Investigation Directorate (CIID) seized nine trucks carrying around 73 metric tonnes of bonded goods after the vehicles allegedly deviated from their prescribed route and entered the Nayabazar area of old Dhaka. The operation was conducted based on a tip-off on the night of August 28, 2026.
Kazi Al Masum, Assistant Director of the CIID, revealed that one of the trucks fled during the operation after being chased, while another was found parked at a predetermined location. The CIID subsequently took control of the seized trucks.
The goods, imported from India in the name of Sri Flexopack Ltd., Khulna, were supposed to be transported to a bonded establishment in Khulna. However, the trucks deviated from the route at Postogola and moved towards southwestern Dhaka, eventually entering Nayabazar, which is outside the normal route to Khulna.
The seized consignment included duplex board and unfinished materials, which were imported from Mehali Papers Pvt. Ltd. of India through Chattogram Customs House. The investigation is examining the ownership and movement of the trucks, the intended destination of the goods, and the possible involvement of the importer, C&F agent, transporter, and prospective buyers.
Kazi Al Masum stated that if it is established that the bonded goods were diverted, unloaded, or sold outside the authorised production programme, legal action will be taken against those responsible under the relevant customs and bond-related laws. The CIID is also investigating whether similar bonded goods had previously been diverted and sold in the open market.
This seizure underscores the CIID's efforts to combat the illegal diversion of bonded goods, which can lead to significant revenue losses for the government and undermine the integrity of the customs system. Ensuring that bonded goods follow their prescribed routes and intended destinations is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and fairness of the import-export process in Bangladesh.
