DHAKA, Aug 29, 2026 (BSS) - 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.

"Based on a tip-off, we conducted an operation in Nayabazar on the night of August 28 and seized nine trucks carrying around 73 metric tonnes of goods imported under the duty-free bond facility," said Kazi Al Masum, Assistant Director of the CIID, at a press conference at NBR Bhaban in the city.

He said one of the trucks fled during the operation after being chased, while another truck was found parked at a predetermined location. 

The CIID subsequently brought the seized trucks under its control, he added.

"One truck, which fled during the operation, could not be immediately identified. We are continuing efforts to trace the truck and identify the persons involved," he said.

He said the goods had been imported from India in the name of Sri Flexopack Ltd., Khulna, and were supposed to be transported to a bonded establishment in Khulna.

"Instead of following the designated route to Khulna, the trucks deviated from the prescribed route and entered the old Dhaka area. We suspected that the goods were being taken to local warehouses for unloading and sale," he said.

According to the official, the prescribed route for goods-carrying vehicles from Chattogram to Khulna is Kanchpur-Sainboard-Pongtola-Mawa Expressway-Padma Bridge-Khulna.

"The trucks deviated from the route at Postogola and moved towards southwestern Dhaka, eventually entering Nayabazar, which is outside the normal route to Khulna," he said.

The seized consignment included duplex board and unfinished materials, which were imported from Mehali Papers Pvt. Ltd. of India through Chattogram Customs House.

Kazi Al Masum said 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.

"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," he said.

The CIID is also investigating whether similar bonded goods had previously been diverted and sold in the open market, he added.