In a major operation at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Directorate (CIID) has seized a significant quantity of gold and high-value smartphones. The estimated market value of the confiscated items is around Tk1.13 crore.

Details of the Seizure

The contraband was recovered during search operations conducted at various points of the airport on Thursday (November 13). According to CIID sources, the seized goods include a substantial amount of gold ornaments and bullion, along with a large number of premium smartphones.

Investigation into Organised Networks

CIID officials have stated that they are examining whether such incidents are linked to organised smuggling networks operating in the country. Investigators are also looking into the methods used to bypass airport security protocols. As part of the investigation, suspects are being interrogated, and their potential connections to international smuggling syndicates are being verified.

Airport Capacity and Security Concerns

The seizure comes amid growing concerns over passenger pressure at the airport. Recent statistics show that air travel has surpassed 10 million passengers in the first six months, with Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport handling 83 percent of the total traffic. This significant volume of passengers has raised questions about the airport's capacity and the effectiveness of its security measures in preventing smuggling activities.

Next Steps

The confiscated items have been inventoried as per regulations and will be disposed of through proper legal channels. Preparations are underway to file cases under customs laws against those involved. The CIID investigation team is working to identify additional individuals connected to the smuggling attempt.