Illegal Indian Goods Worth Tk 4 Crore Destroyed in Cumilla

Customs authorities in Cumilla have destroyed illegal imported Indian goods worth around Tk 4 crore as part of an enforcement and disposal operation conducted on Wednesday.

The destruction drive took place over approximately three hours from morning to midday, with officials burning and burying the confiscated items to ensure safe disposal.

According to customs sources, the seized goods were collected over time during various law enforcement operations. As the items were either banned for import or deemed unsuitable for auction, authorities decided to destroy them.

The destroyed consignments included a large quantity of sarees, fireworks, and Indian medicines, with nearly 90 percent consisting of fireworks. Outdated, torn, and non-saleable sarees were burned, while hazardous items such as fireworks and restricted medicines were neutralized using water before being buried under soil.

A senior customs official, along with representatives from the district administration, police, city corporation, fire service, Department of Narcotics Control, and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), were present during the operation.

Officials noted that earlier destruction of fireworks through burning often created loud explosions and heavy smoke, causing panic in nearby areas. This time, however, safer disposal methods were used to minimize environmental and public safety risks.

Authorities said the operation reflects ongoing efforts to curb illegal cross-border trade and ensure proper handling of confiscated hazardous materials.