Two containers declared as bird feed from Pakistan were found to contain banned poppy seeds instead, customs officials revealed on Thursday (November 6). The discovery was announced in an official statement issued by the Chattogram Customs House.
According to the statement, the shipment was imported by M/S Adib Trading, based in Korbaniganj, Chattogram. The import documents claimed the consignment carried 32 tons of bird feed. The two containers arrived at Chattogram Port on October 9 and were later moved to the private depot of Saber Ahmed Timber Company Limited for release formalities.
However, acting on a tip-off, customs authorities suspended the clearance process and initiated a detailed inspection. On October 22, the containers were opened in the presence of officials, revealing that only a portion of the cargo consisted of bird feed. Laboratory tests later confirmed the presence of poppy seeds, with approximately seven tons of bird feed and 25 tons of poppy seeds recovered.
Investigations revealed that to conceal the illicit goods, the containers had been loaded in Pakistan with sacks of bird feed placed near the doors, while the poppy seeds were hidden behind them.
Customs officials stated that if poppy seeds are capable of germination, they fall under Class ‘A’ narcotics according to the Narcotics Control Act 2018. Under the Import Policy Order, poppy seeds are strictly prohibited for import.
Chattogram Customs Deputy Commissioner H.M. Kabir informed the media that the seized poppy seeds are valued at approximately Tk 6.5 crore. Legal action is being taken in accordance with existing laws.
